Poultry farmers and egg exporters in Dormaa Ahenkro in the Bono Region have appealed to the Government of Ghana to engage authorities in Burkina Faso to lift restrictions on the export of Ghanaian eggs, citing significant 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 lasted 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 dire, noting that Dormaa is widely regarded as a major hub for egg production in Ghana.

He disclosed that eggs intended for export to Burkina Faso are being destroyed, leaving farmers and traders grappling with heavy losses.

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

He therefore called on the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and relevant authorities to issue a formal report confirming the management of the outbreak to restore confidence in Ghanaian poultry products.

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

He further called for the establishment of clear export procedures and independent testing and certification of eggs by appropriate health and food safety authorities, with results communicated to 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 socio-economic impact of the restrictions.

She said the ban has not only disrupted trade but has also led to job losses among young people involved in the egg production and distribution chain, particularly those engaged in packaging and transportation.

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

The farmers maintain that swift government action is needed to address the concerns and revive the once-thriving cross-border egg trade.