A member of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hamza Suhuyini has urged the African Union (AU) to play a more active role in protecting citizens in the Sahel region following a deadly attack on Ghanaian traders in Burkina Faso.
Suhuyini, part of the NDC’s communications team, spoke on Asaase Radio’s The Forum, highlighting what he described as the government’s proactive steps to safeguard Ghanaian interests abroad.
“Prior to his swearing-in, President John Dramani Mahama visited several African countries, including Sahelian states, to strengthen Ghana’s regional ties,” Suhuyini said.
“These visits were not symbolic; they built the foundation for cooperation that now protects Ghanaians living and trading in these countries.”
Suhuyini noted that these diplomatic efforts included the appointment of a special envoy, Larry Gbevlo Lartey, to oversee relations with the Sahelian states, emphasizing the importance of monitoring Ghanaian citizens engaged in cross-border commerce.
He condemned the recent attacks in Burkina Faso as “unfortunate” but cautioned against attributing the incidents to Ghana’s domestic agricultural challenges.
“Trading is driven by commercial interest. While we must address our national systems, we cannot ignore regional failures,” he said.
Suhuyini called for greater accountability from regional organizations, including the AU and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Ghana pays dues to these bodies. One of their responsibilities is ensuring the safety of our citizens abroad. We must see practical interventions to confront terrorism in the Sahel.”
The terror attack led to the killing of eight Ghanaian traders.
The Ghana Armed Forces earlier confirmed the safe evacuation of three injured traders from Burkina Faso, following a coordinated response with diplomatic channels.
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