By Leo Nelson
Senior Divisional Chief of Teshie-Aflao and Warlord (Awadada) of the Aflao Traditional Area, Torgbi Kpambi Vedzesu V, is appealing to the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George to urgently improve telecommunications infrastructure in the Aflao enclave to strengthen border security and support socio-economic development.
According to the traditional ruler, persistent network challenges and inadequate telecommunications facilities along Ghana’s eastern border with Togo continue to hamper effective communication among security agencies and residents, creating vulnerabilities that could be exploited by criminal elements.
Torgbi Kpambi Vedzesu V made the appeal an interaction with The New Republic at Aflao, where he highlighted the strategic importance of Aflao as Ghana’s busiest land border and a major gateway for trade and movement within the West African sub-region.
He noted that reliable telecommunications services are critical for intelligence gathering, surveillance, emergency response, and coordination among security agencies operating along the border.
“The security of our borders depends significantly on the ability of our security personnel to communicate effectively and promptly. Weak network coverage in some sections of the border undermines efforts to combat transnational crimes, illegal migration, smuggling, and other security threats,” he stated.
The Aflao Warlord emphasized that improving telecommunications infrastructure would not only enhance security operations but also facilitate business activities, digital transactions, education, healthcare delivery, and access to government services.
He called on government, telecommunications service providers, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate in expanding network coverage, upgrading existing infrastructure, and deploying modern communication technologies in border communities.
Torgbi Kpambi Vedzesu V further stressed that as Ghana continues to pursue digital transformation, border communities such as Aflao should not be left behind.
He observed that improved telecommunications connectivity would enable security agencies stationed at the border to respond swiftly to incidents and share real-time information, thereby strengthening national security.
Residents and business operators in Aflao have also expressed concerns about intermittent network disruptions and poor connectivity in certain areas, urging authorities to prioritize investments in telecommunications infrastructure.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns over cross-border criminal activities and increasing calls for enhanced security measures along Ghana’s frontiers.
Stakeholders believe that modern and reliable telecommunications infrastructure will play a vital role in supporting the work of security agencies while promoting economic growth and regional integration in the border town.
