Ghana has 48 legitimate entry points but over 300 illegal crossing points – Interior Minister

Ghana's Interior Minister, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, revealed that the country possesses 48 legitimate entry points but over 300 unauthorized crossing points, signaling significant concerns over the nation's border security. The excess unapproved routes create a security challenge which demands enhanced collaboration with neighboring nations, specifically through intelligence sharing and concerted efforts to address threats across the region.

During an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on October 12, 2026, Muntaka emphasized the importance of cooperation to tackle security issues that could cross national boundaries. "You have to try and share intelligence; you have to work together," he advised.

Despite noting an improvement in Ghana's overall security compared to 2025, Muntaka cautioned against gauging progress solely based on the reduction in the number of fatalities. Instead, he highlighted a decrease in the number of curfews imposed nationwide, with the country beginning 2025 with around 11 curfews and concluding the year with approximately nine.

Currently, only three curfews remain in effect. He pointed to Bawku in the Upper East Region as an example where there has been a 150-day period without any gunfire, allowing authorities to ease restrictions. Curfews there have been adjusted to between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., and residents are now permitted to ride motorbikes during daytime hours, marking a significant change from the previous five-year prohibition.

Muntaka recalled that the Bawku conflict had previously led to violence spilling over into other areas, resulting in retaliatory attacks and the burning of buses along highways. He attributed the resolution of this conflict to a combination of security operations and peacebuilding measures. While acknowledging ongoing security threats such as ethnic conflicts, land disputes, and illicit drug activities, Muntaka stressed the critical role of effective border management in mitigating these challenges.

He emphasized the need for Ghana to work collectively with neighboring countries, exchanging intelligence and enhancing cooperation to collectively address transnational security threats. This disclosure underscores the magnitude of Ghana's border management challenges as the government strives to maintain and improve the nation's security posture.