We must unite to fight terrorism – President Akufo-Addo to African countries

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on African countries to strengthen regional mechanisms and improve cooperation by sharing information and best practices to create a safer and more secure continent.

At the opening of the 2nd International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEC) in Accra on Wednesday, the President stressed the interconnectedness of security threats on the continent, such as terrorism and violent extremism, which often transcend national borders.

He also highlighted the risks posed by the digital revolution, including cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, financial systems and government institutions.

President Akufo-Addo stressed that no African country can tackle these challenges alone and that regional cooperation is essential to effectively address these threats.

The two-day event, organised by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), brought together over 500 experts from military institutions, security agencies and international defence industry stakeholders to discuss key security issues and showcase technological solutions.

The theme of the conference was: “Improving regional mechanisms to address contemporary security challenges in Africa.” The aim of the conference was to strengthen international cooperation and address contemporary security challenges in Africa.

Accra Initiative

In his address, President Akufo Addo emphasised the role of regional organisations such as the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in improving security on the continent.

He also stressed the importance of the Accra Initiative, a security partnership set up by several West African countries, including Ghana, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin and Mali.

According to him, the initiative represents a proactive and preventive approach to the fight against terrorism and transnational organised crime in the region.

However, President Akufo-Addo expressed concern over the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the initiative to form the Alliance of Sahel States, which he said has weakened the collective strength of the initiative.

“This move undermines our joint security efforts, as it creates gaps in regional coordination and intelligence sharing, which are crucial in our fight against terrorism and organized crime.

“The fragmentation of our Alliance has only emboldened terrorist groups and other criminal networks, endangering the stability and security of the entire region. It is imperative that we address these challenges head-on by strengthening our commitments to the Initiative and ensuring that all Member States remain actively engaged,” he said.

“Only through unity and cooperation can we effectively combat the threats facing our region and ensure the peace and prosperity of our people,” President Akufo-Addo added.

Importance of the event

Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong Peprah, also stressed the crucial role that conferences such as IDEC play in developing defence strategies.

He noted that in today’s era, where military, technological innovation and defense alliances define warfare, such exhibitions and conferences are more important than ever.

He pointed out that artificial intelligence and advanced guidance technology are changing the nature of warfare worldwide.

The event, he said, provided an unparalleled platform for showcasing technological solutions and exchanging ideas essential for the defense of the participating countries.

Lt. Gen. Oppong Peprah concluded with the hope that participants would leave IDEC 2024 with a renewed commitment to jointly address today’s security challenges, supported by the latest technological solutions.