Accra: Ghana and the European Union (EU) have signed a historic Security and Defence Partnership, marking the first such agreement between the EU and an African nation. The partnership aims to bolster cooperation in tackling security threats in Ghana and the broader West African region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the agreement was formalized in Accra by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Ms Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission. This strategic framework is designed to address counter-terrorism, conflict prevention, cyber security, border management, maritime security, and peace operations.
The partnership is expected to enhance Ghana's ability to address emerging threats, improve crisis response capabilities, and strengthen regional security coordination, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea and the Sahel. The EU has provided Ghana with security equipment, including surveillance drones, anti-drone systems, communication and intelligence-gathering tools, and motorcycles to bolster security operations.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the importance of the agreement as a symbol of strengthened cooperation between Ghana and the EU in tackling complex security challenges. She highlighted that the EU currently supports over 30 security-related projects in Ghana, spanning conflict resolution, counter-terrorism, and cyber security. Additionally, the EU has conducted around 40 training sessions for Ghana's military and civilian security personnel in the Gulf of Guinea.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted the significance of the newly acquired equipment in enhancing the operational readiness of Ghana's security forces. She also pointed out the regional security challenges, such as the recent killing of Ghanaian traders in Burkina Faso, underscoring the necessity for robust partnerships.
Ms Kallas remarked that the agreement signifies a new chapter in EU-Ghana relations, emphasizing the interconnectedness of security in Europe and Africa. She revealed that the EU has delivered a £50 million security support package to Ghana since 2023, which includes military equipment and training support.
The National Security Coordinator, Commissioner of Police Osman Abdul-Razak, hailed the agreement as a milestone in Ghana-EU relations and a boost to national and regional security efforts. The partnership is built on existing EU initiatives such as the European Peace Facility and aims to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, marginalization, and youth unemployment.