Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for an Africa-led strategy backed by Russia to tackle terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel region.
Ablakwa made the call during a press briefing in Moscow following bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
“African-Led, Internationally Supported”
The Foreign Minister welcomed Russia’s cooperation and support for Ghana’s efforts to counter violent extremism in the Sahel, but stressed that the long-term solution must come from within Africa.
“A sustainable response should be led by African countries, with support from international partners including Russia,” Ablakwa said.
He noted that while external support is important, ownership and leadership by African states will be critical to ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region.
Growing Threat in the Sahel
Ablakwa said greater cooperation was needed to address the growing security threat in the Sahel, where militant groups have expanded their activities in recent years.
The region has seen increased attacks on civilians, security forces, and cross-border infiltration, with concerns that instability could spill further into coastal West African countries including Ghana.
The Minister reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to regional security through ECOWAS, the Accra Initiative, and bilateral partnerships aimed at intelligence sharing, border security, and capacity building.
Ghana-Russia Talks
The discussions with Minister Lavrov also covered broader areas of cooperation, including education, energy, and multilateral reforms.
Ablakwa said Ghana values Russia’s willingness to support African security efforts,but emphasized that partnerships must respect African leadership and priorities.
“The fight against terrorism in the Sahel cannot be outsourced. Africa must lead, and our partners must stand with us,” he added.
