Poultry farmers and egg exporters in Dormaa Ahenkro have called on the Government of Ghana to engage authorities in Burkina Faso to lift restrictions on the export of Ghanaian eggs, citing mounting financial losses.

The appeal was made by the Dormaa Ahenkro Poultry Farmers, Egg Sellers, and Exporters Association during a press conference, where members expressed concern over the continued suspension of trade, which has persisted for more than two months.

Speaking at the event, Baafour Atosi Ababio, Chief of Atesikrom and Nsumankwaahene of the Dormaa Traditional Council, described the situation as critical. He noted that Dormaa Ahenkro is a key hub for egg production in Ghana.

He revealed that eggs originally meant for export to Burkina Faso are now being destroyed, leaving farmers and traders to absorb significant losses.

According to him, the restrictions stem from health concerns linked to Ghana’s previous bird flu outbreak, which he said has not been conclusively addressed through an official government white paper.

He therefore urged the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and other relevant authorities to issue a formal report confirming that the outbreak has been effectively managed, in order to restore confidence in Ghanaian poultry products.

Also addressing the media, Sylvester Asante, President of the Eggs Exporters Association in Dormaa Ahenkro, called on government to initiate diplomatic engagement with Burkina Faso to resolve the impasse.

He further advocated for clear export procedures and independent testing and certification of eggs by appropriate food safety and health authorities, with results shared with Burkinabe officials to assure them of product safety.

Meanwhile, Nana Adoma Yeboaa, Ahenema Krontihemaa of the Dormaa Traditional Council and an executive member of the Association, highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of the restrictions.

She noted that the ban has disrupted trade and led to job losses, particularly among young people involved in packaging and transportation within the egg value chain.

Nana Yeboaa warned that prolonged restrictions could worsen unemployment and trigger wider social challenges, urging President John Dramani Mahama to intervene swiftly to restore trade and protect livelihoods.

The farmers insist that urgent government action is needed to address the situation and revive the once-thriving cross-border egg trade.