GIS urged cooperation in protecting borders

The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Naana Eyiah Quansah, has urged the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to work with other security agencies to protect the country’s borders and safeguard its territorial integrity ahead of the upcoming elections.

She emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and cannot be left to a single institution.

“In today’s complex and ever-changing security landscape, it is critical that the GIS works with other agencies to ensure the country’s security,” he said.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day conference organized by the GIS in Koforidua on Friday for management and regional commanders, the Deputy Minister stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to protect Ghana’s borders, especially in light of the increasing threat of terrorism and violent acts. extremism in Sub-Saharan Africa, often fueled by political instability.

The conference, themed ‘Elections and National Security: The Activities of the Ghana Immigration Service’, focused on discussing the role of GIS in the upcoming elections, assessing its performance and challenges, and strategically planning for the future.

She stressed that any weaknesses in border management could be exploited by terrorists and extremists during the elections, posing serious risks to national security.

She encouraged the GIS to remain vigilant and proactive and work closely with other stakeholders to counter emerging threats.

Over the years, the GIS has strengthened its partnerships with key agencies to strengthen border security, reduce irregular migration, prevent terrorism and combat transnational organized crime, she noted.

The minister urged the GIS to continue to strengthen these collaborations, noting that effective border management was not only critical for security but also for facilitating trade and development.

She assured the public that the government was committed to ensuring peaceful elections, stating that resources have been provided to key stakeholders, including the GIS, to help them carry out their duties effectively.

“The government has equipped the GIS with the necessary human resources and logistics to carry out its mandate during the election period,” she said.

The State Secretary also commended the proactive measures taken by the GIS to prevent the infiltration of undesirable elements into the country.

She emphasized that the government would continue to support the GIS and other border management institutions in strengthening systems and scaling up initiatives to protect the country’s territorial integrity.

She called on all stakeholders to contribute their efforts to ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

The Comptroller General of the GIS, Kwame Asuah Takyi, also spoke at the conference, noting that the 2024 elections pose unique challenges, especially in the area of ​​national security.

He stressed that the GIS must remain vigilant and prepared to mitigate potential risks at the borders, thus ensuring a safe environment for the electoral process.

Mr Takyi acknowledged the instability in the Sahel region and West Africa, where violent incidents have increased in frequency and complexity.

He emphasized the importance of the GIS to enhance its border management strategies while facilitating the movement of people, goods and services.

The conference, he concluded, would help the GIS develop solutions and strategies to position itself as a progressive and responsive institution during the elections.

FROM AMA TEKYIWAA AMPADU AGYEMAN, KOFORIDUA