President Akufo-Addo calls for strengthened regional security mechanisms at IDEC 2024

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, speaking at the opening of the Second International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEC) 2024, called for a comprehensive strategy to address the diverse security challenges facing Africa.

The conference, held at the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters in Accra, brought together defence experts and stakeholders to discuss ways to improve regional mechanisms for addressing contemporary security challenges.

The President stressed the interconnectedness of security threats on the continent, ranging from terrorism and organised crime to cybersecurity and climate-related risks.

“The security landscape in Africa is characterised by a variety of threats that are interconnected and often transcend national borders,” he said. “Given the transnational nature of these threats, no African country can address them alone. Only through regional cooperation and collaboration can we effectively address these challenges.”

President Akufo-Addo proposed several strategies to strengthen regional security mechanisms, including improving intelligence sharing and coordination, building capacity for peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations, and establishing the ECOWAS Standby Force.

He stressed the importance of intelligence sharing, stating: “Effective intelligence sharing and coordination among African countries are crucial to preventing and responding to security threats. Intelligence is the lifeblood of security operations and without timely and accurate information, our efforts will be in vain.”

The President also called for more investment in capacity building of security forces to enable them to conduct peacekeeping missions and counter-terrorism operations.

He stressed the need for specialized training to deal with both traditional and non-traditional threats, including cyber threats.

He also stressed the importance of establishing the ECOWAS Standby Force to respond quickly and effectively to threats and maintain democratic governance.

On maritime security, President Akufo-Addo urged African countries to improve their maritime security capabilities to protect their vast coastlines and maritime resources.

He advocated greater investment in naval and coast guard assets and better cooperation between coastal states.

“Africa’s vast coastline and maritime resources are a critical component of our economic development. We must improve our maritime security capabilities to protect these resources from illicit activities,” he said.

Regarding the impact of climate change on security, President Akufo-Addo called for the integration of climate security aspects into national and regional security strategies.

He stressed the need for climate adaptation and mitigation measures to increase the resilience of communities to climate-related shocks.

The President concluded his speech with a call for inclusive governance and development to address the root causes of insecurity.

He stated: “Security is not just the absence of violence; it is also the presence of justice, equality and opportunity. We must address the root causes of insecurity by promoting inclusive governance and promoting sustainable development.”

As the conference progressed, President Akufo-Addo expressed hope that fruitful discussions will take place that will lead to useful outcomes and contribute to a safer and more prosperous Africa.

“By improving our regional mechanisms and promoting closer cooperation among African countries, we can build a safer and more secure continent for future generations,” he concluded.

Source: Presidency

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