African leaders unite to strengthen regional security mechanisms amid growing threats

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, have stressed the need for improved regional security mechanisms to address growing security challenges in Africa.

Speaking at the 2nd International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEC) 2024, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the interconnectedness of the continent’s security threats, 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 interlinked and often cut across national borders,” said President Akufo-Addo.

“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.”

This call for regional cooperation comes against the backdrop of increasing security threats in West Africa, including human trafficking, drug trafficking, counterfeit goods, smuggling and illegal immigration.

The persistent risks of violent extremism and terrorism have also increased, particularly in the Sahel region.

Lt. Gen. Oppong-Peprah stressed the importance of technological innovation and defense alliances in modern warfare, noting the increasing reliance on advanced tools such as drones, intelligence, surveillance and target acquisition (ISTAR) assets, and communications systems.

“IDEC 24 provides an unparalleled platform for technological solutions and unparalleled ideas that are essential to the defense of our respective countries,” he said.

Reading a speech on behalf of the Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah, the National Security Coordinator, Edward Asomani, stressed the need for a robust regional and global response to address the multifaceted challenges facing the region.

“Experts warn that while national countermeasures are essential, they are not sufficient on their own to address these challenges. Collective security through strategic alliances has become essential,” he said.

In light of these pressing challenges, President Akufo-Addo proposed several strategies to strengthen regional security mechanisms. These include improving intelligence sharing and coordination, building capacity for peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations, and establishing the ECOWAS Standby Force.

“The security of our region requires a collective effort and we must work together to address the root causes of insecurity,” President Akufo-Addo stressed.

-BY Daniel Bampoe