Extremism in Sahel Requires Multi-layered Approach- Ablakwa
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a comprehensive and multi-layered approach to tackling insecurity in the Sahel region.
According to him, the violent extremism in the Sahel is a complex challenge that requires strengthened intelligence cooperation, improved surveillance capabilities and enhanced regional security frameworks.
Contributing to a High-Level policy discussion at Chatham House in London to examine the growing threat of violent extremism in the Sahel, the Minister paid tribute to the eight Ghanaians who lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Titao, Burkina Faso and highlighted the worsening security situation in the Sahel and the broader implications for stability across the West African sub-region.
He emphasised that the evolving threat of terrorism requires coordinated regional responses, stronger governance systems and sustained collaboration among countries in the region.
He also underscored the importance of addressing the underlying drivers of violent extremism, including weak governance structures, ungoverned spaces and socio-economic vulnerabilities that continue to create conditions for extremist groups to operate.
According to him, Ghana remains committed to promoting dialogue and cooperation among West African countries to address the shared security threats confronting the region.
He noted that Ghana continues to work with regional and international partners to strengthen mechanisms aimed at addressing the situation.
Honourable Ablakwa also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening national security architecture, including ongoing efforts to enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
He further reiterated Ghana’s longstanding position on security cooperation with international partners, stressing that such engagements must be guided by respect for national sovereignty and conducted in the strategic interest of the country.
The discussion formed part of broader international efforts to examine practical solutions for the security crisis in the Sahel and explore pathways for rebuilding regional stability through strengthened cooperation among African states and global partners.
The event also featured the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar OON, who shared perspectives on regional security cooperation and efforts to combat violent extremism across West Africa.
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