In a statement on Saturday, 28 October, the European Union confirmed the delivery of approximately 100 armoured vehicles to Ghana, as part of an aid package intended to bolster the defence capabilities of the West African country. The generous donation was received in the nation’s capital, Accra, where Ghana’s President, Nana Akuffo Adodo met with the EU’s foreign policy chief, Joseph Borrell, to discuss matters of international and regional interest.
Alongside its Gulf of Guinea neighbours, including Benin, Ivory Coast, and Togo, Ghana is facing an increased threat from jihadi violence, particularly in the Sahel region. In addressing these growing security concerns, President Adodo highlighted the importance of collaboration among nations, and the support of external partners such as the EU.
In a passionate appeal, President Adodo stated, “It is imperative to understand that no single country can confront the terrorist threat on its own. Collaborative efforts among nations facing this challenge, and the critical support from partners such as the European Union who share our security concerns, remain crucial in mitigating the terrorist threat in the West African region.”
This shipment of military vehicles forms part of a broader £616 million package from the EU, designated to fortify the security and defences of the four coastal nations of the Gulf of Guinea. This assistance will later incorporate electronic warfare systems and aerial surveillance equipment.
While Ghana has so far managed to elude jihadist attacks within its territories, its neighbours haven’t had the same fortune. The military in Benin reports approximately 20 incursions across the border since 2021, while Togo has also experienced several attacks on its northern frontier.
In addition to enhancing the region’s defences, the EU foreign policy chief, Joseph Borrell, indicated that the investment from the EU also aims to promote job creation and services. The focus here is particularly on Northern Ghana, a region where there is increasing worry that jihadists may exploit social and economic dissatisfaction.
“Ghana, alongside its neighbouring countries, faces significant challenges with unrest, especially within the Sahel region. The EU’s injection of support at this pivotal time shows our united commitment to tackling these territorial issues, as well as addressing the socio-economic factors that can sometimes fuel them,” commented Borrell.
This significant bolstering of Ghana’s defensive resources through the EU’s support highlights the international concern over the region’s escalating security threats. It is an affirmation of the collective endeavour to protect vulnerable territories from jihadi violence and work towards improving socio-economic conditions that extremists could exploit. This investment signifies not just a vote of confidence in Ghana’s stance against terrorism but also an investment in its future and, indeed, the future of the West African region as a whole.
Photo by israel palacio on Unsplash
