FOSDA calls for immediate lifting of Hamile curfew, speedy investigation and restoration of livelihoods

The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) calls on the Government to immediately lift the curfew imposed on Hamile following the 3 November 2026 dynamite explosion, while expediting a transparent investigation into the incident and the subsequent confrontation between residents and security personnel.

While recognising government’s responsibility to maintain security and public order, FOSDA is concerned about the growing economic and social hardship the restrictions are imposing on residents. Hamile is a border community whose livelihoods depend heavily on trading, transportation and cross-border commerce. Prolonged restrictions, particularly without clear communication or a defined timeline for their review, could also deepen mistrust between residents and security agencies, heighten tensions and undermine the community cooperation essential for effective border security.

Information received by FOSDA from local contacts indicates that women food vendors, traders, transport operators, shop owners and other small-scale businesses are experiencing significant income losses. Residents also face difficulties accessing essential services during restricted hours. Of particular concern are reports that long-haul trucks transporting goods to Burkina Faso and other neighbouring countries remain stranded, with parked trucks reportedly stretching from Hamile towards Nandom, approximately 17 kilometres away. This disruption risks extending the economic consequences beyond Hamile to transport operators, traders and regional supply chains.

FOSDA acknowledges the need for appropriate security measures following the incident. However, such measures must be proportionate, regularly reviewed and responsive to changing circumstances. With reports indicating that calm has returned, the authorities should urgently reassess the necessity of maintaining the curfew. Targeted security measures, including appropriate controls on firearms and explosives, can be maintained without imposing blanket restrictions on residents’ movement and livelihoods.

Lifting the curfew must not mean abandoning the investigation. Authorities must urgently establish the origin, quantity and intended destination of the explosives, the circumstances surrounding their detonation, and the allegations of firearm use during the initial interception and subsequent confrontation. The reported civilian injuries also require impartial investigation and accountability where wrongdoing is established.

FOSDA further calls for stronger preventive border security through adequately resourced and operationally empowered Border Security Committees (BOSEC), improved intelligence-sharing and meaningful engagement with border communities.

Hamile’s residents should not continue to bear the prolonged economic and social costs of an unresolved security incident. The Government must act with urgency to restore normal life, ensure accountability and address the security vulnerabilities exposed by this tragedy.

Security must protect both lives and livelihoods. FOSDA therefore calls for the immediate lifting of the curfew, a speedy and credible investigation, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence.

Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA)
Accra, Ghana | www.fosda.org