The Ivorian authorities are demanding discussions with the Ghana government over the likely environmental and social impact of the Bui hydroelectric dam project on Ivory Coast.

According to the Ivorians, Ghana, in building the Dam, failed to consult them “in total violation of the international regulations in force, as regards cross-border projects”.

In a letter dated June 17, 2013 and published by The Herald newspaper, the Ivorian government also indicated that although they had sent several invitations to Ghana for discussions on the project, they were yet to receive a response.

The Ivorians want discussions with Ghana on how to mitigate the consequences which the operation of the dam would have on them.

The Bui Hydro-electric Dam is located 50km from the Ghana-Ivory Coast border on the Black Volta.

The dam is expected to provide about 400 megawatts of power to Ghana when it becomes fully operational.