Why President Traoré’s visit to Ghana has sparked massive public interest

President Ibrahim Traoré’s decision to participate in President John Mahama’s inauguration ceremony at the Independence Square on January 07, 2025, has caught the attention of the Ghanaian public.

The significance of his participation in the ceremony, goes beyond the event itself, especially considering the context of the current instability in Burkina Faso. To see a military leader leave his country, even momentarily, amid such insecurity is remarkable.

The visit was not just about a symbolic gesture; it represents a shift in Ghana-Burkina Faso relations that many did not foresee, especially after the tensions that arose under Akufo-Addo’s presidency.

Akufo-Addo’s accusations to the White House, which included claims that Burkina Faso was hiring mercenaries for mining rights and aligning with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, created a rift that has yet to fully heal. These comments, aired publicly in December 2022, cast a shadow on the relationship between the two nations.

These allegations, however, weren’t only diplomatic rhetoric. They led to Ghana requesting foreign assistance to secure its northern borders, allegedly in response to perceived threats from Burkina Faso.

Critics have raised doubts about the validity of these concerns, suggesting that it was a move to secure foreign aid, particularly in the form of financial support. This diplomatic fallout, among others, led to Burkina Faso initiating attempts to cut ties with ECOWAS, and the rift is still fresh in the minds of many in the subregion.

The most significant development, however, came in January 2024 when Burkina Faso officially announced its intention to exit ECOWAS. Following the required year’s notice, it began issuing non-ECOWAS passports in mid-2024, marking the beginning of its push for a more independent foreign policy.

Burkina Faso has since formed an alliance with Mali and Niger—known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—which aims to counter external influences, particularly in the context of security and sovereignty.

Traoré’s visit to Ghana, therefore, is about more than just diplomacy; it’s a bold gesture of reconciling with Ghana, and potentially other regional players, despite the country’s exit from ECOWAS.

It’s a symbolic move towards healing fractured relationships and signals Traore’s willingness to collaborate on shared regional challenges. President Mahama’s diplomatic engagement is pivotal in this process, showcasing not just his political skill, but his commitment to mending fences in a politically unstable region.

When we talk about leadership, one quality stands above the rest: UNITY. Mahama has consistently demonstrated that effective leadership is about bringing people together, fostering peace, and prioritising dialogue over division.

This is in stark contrast to Akufo-Addo’s divisive leadership, where accusations and international posturing contributed to a fractured Ghana and heightened tensions with neighbouring countries. Mahama’s approach, however, looks to build bridges, offering a sense of hope for a more united West Africa.

Akufo-Addo’s divisive rhetoric, especially in his public speeches, was a source of internal conflict. From the clergy to academia, and even his own party, many felt alienated by his statements and actions.

His 2023 address to the UN General Assembly, in which he openly criticised other African nations for their ties with Russia, further deepened the divide within ECOWAS. The diplomatic fallout from his policies was a stark reminder of the consequences of poor leadership that does not seek unity but instead thrives on division.

The impact of Akufo-Addo’s (mis) leadership was felt not only within Ghana but across the region. His actions led to growing discontent among citizens who felt disconnected from their leaders.

Internationally, Ghana’s reputation took a hit, with many seeing the country as a source of discord in West Africa rather than a stabilising force. Businesses collapsed and many business people left the country. This is where Mahama’s efforts become even more important. The opportunity to rebuild relationships with Burkina Faso presents a timely chance to restore Ghana’s position as a key player in regional peace and unity.

Beyond diplomacy, there’s real potential for collaboration between Ghana and Burkina Faso in various sectors. Both countries share common interests in trade, agriculture, and energy, and the Volta River could be a focal point for collaborative hydroelectric projects.

With mutual interests, Mahama’s outreach to Traoré could pave the way for joint initiatives that would benefit both countries’ economies and improve the living standards of their citizens.

Mahama’s approach to regional diplomacy may also play a significant role in the future of ECOWAS, particularly as Burkina Faso formally exits the bloc later this month. By positioning Ghana as a mediator, Mahama could set a precedent for how regional conflicts might be resolved without the heavy hand of foreign powers.

This proactive stance could open up new possibilities for addressing the subregion’s challenges, especially in terms of security and economic development.

Traoré’s visit to Ghana also sends a message to the international community. It demonstrates Ghana’s ability to influence regional affairs, even as global power dynamics shift.

With the growing influence of Russia and China in Africa, Mahama’s leadership offers an alternative approach, one that focuses on regional solidarity and homegrown solutions to the problems facing West Africa. This is an opportunity for Ghana to redefine its role on the African continent.

Ghana has historically been a strong advocate for Pan-Africanism, dating back to Kwame Nkrumah’s vision of a united Africa. Mahama’s successful outreach to Traoré is reminiscent of this tradition, signaling a commitment to African unity.

This move is not just about Ghana and Burkina Faso; it’s about the broader vision of collective growth and solidarity, ideals that are very important as external pressures continue to shape the continent’s future.

The warm reception Traoré received in Ghana, coupled with the thunderous applause he received from the Ghanaian crowd, shows Mahama’s diplomatic prowess. Thousands of Ghanaians gathered at the Independence Square to witness this historic moment, with cultural displays that celebrated the shared heritage of both nations.

This spectacle wasn’t just about politics; it was a vivid reminder of how cultural diplomacy can be a powerful tool in bridging divides and building lasting relationships.

As Mahama embarks on this new chapter of his leadership as the President of Ghana, the eyes of the nation and the region are on him. Ghanaians, fatigued by years of economic challenges and hardships under the NPP, are hoping for leadership that prioritises unity, prosperity and progress.

The success of Mahama’s diplomatic efforts could redefine his legacy and Ghana’s role in the region, offering a hopeful vision for the future.

Congratulations to Mahama for achieving this remarkable feat. His efforts to repair Ghana’s reputation and promote peace in West Africa are commendable.

As Ghanaians, we hope for more milestones like this under his leadership. If his diplomatic successes continue, Mahama has the potential to steer Ghana towards becoming the united and prosperous nation we all aspire to see.

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Writer: Daniel Fenyi

The writer is a licensed counselor, educationist, professional writer and career coach who guides young people through his writings. You can reach him via email [email protected]

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