The recent closure of the Benin border following the coup in Niger is expected to have far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to an imminent scarcity of onions in Ghana. Onion traders stranded at the Benin border due to the political turmoil in Niger have urgently appealed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for intervention in releasing around 70 trucks loaded with onions, en route from Niger to Ghana through Benin.
The extended border closure has left these trucks immobilized at the border for several weeks, and the onion traders are concerned that the produce may perish if swift action is not taken. The group, responsible for over 70 truckloads of onions, emphasized that without immediate assistance, onion prices could skyrocket, exacerbating an already critical situation. Vegetable prices have surged significantly due to the ongoing political unrest in Niger, with the cost of a bag of vegetables ranging from GH¢1,500 to GH¢1,600. Industry insiders fear that the prices could potentially reach GH¢3,000 to GH¢4,000 if the situation persists.
Yakubu Apendiba, spokesperson for the onion traders, highlighted the urgency of the matter. He explained, “Monday night, they opened about 35 trucks of onions. They have also parked about 45 trucks at the Burkina Faso border. The Ghana Ambassador in Benin visited the truck drivers on Saturday, Monday night they moved to the Burkina Faso border, and some were able to pass through the Benin border.”
Apendiba continued, “But some are still stuck at the Burkina Faso border. Now if you come to the onion market today, it’s not easy, onions which used to be sold at GH¢1,000 to GH¢1,100 are now being sold at GH¢1,500. There’s a lack of onions at other places as well. So we are pleading with the government to help us talk to Burkina Faso’s President so that the trucks will be escorted to Ghana.”
The crisis stems from the coup in Niger, where the country’s constitution was dissolved, institutions were suspended, and borders were closed. The coup leaders took control of the nation and detained President Mohamed Bazoum. The situation escalated to the point where the country’s airspace was closed indefinitely, citing concerns over potential military intervention from neighboring countries.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had warned of possible military action if President Bazoum was not reinstated by a certain deadline. While the coup leaders have expressed their readiness to defend Niger, international pressure and diplomatic efforts are intensifying to address the crisis and its consequences.
Source: citinewsroom
