Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized the need for regional and international cooperation to address the growing threat of terrorism in the Sahel region. Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York on September 27, Mahama highlighted the escalation of instability in the Sahel, which he attributed to the aftermath of the Libya conflict, the proliferation of arms, and the movement of terrorist groups into the region.
Mahama noted that the subsequent military coups in the region should be understood within the broader security context. He stressed that the fight against terrorism cannot be addressed by individual countries or regions alone, making regional and international cooperation necessary. According to Mahama, Ghana is strengthening surveillance and intelligence-sharing with neighboring countries as part of efforts to protect its borders.
The former President also called for continued dialogue between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), stressing the need to rebuild bridges between the two blocs. He said this dialogue is crucial in addressing the regional security challenges. Mahama's comments come as security challenges continue to confront the Sahel region, with many countries struggling to contain the threat of terrorism.
Mahama's remarks at the Council on Foreign Relations underscored the complexity of the security situation in the Sahel region. He noted that the region's instability has far-reaching consequences, including the displacement of people and the disruption of economic activities. The former President emphasized the need for a collective response to address the root causes of terrorism in the region.
As part of Ghana's efforts to safeguard its territory, Mahama said the country is working with other countries to address the regional security challenges. He highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism, saying that no single country can address the threat alone. Mahama's comments reflect Ghana's commitment to regional security and stability.
The call for regional and international cooperation to combat terrorism is not new, but Mahama's remarks at the Council on Foreign Relations have added urgency to the issue. With the Sahel region facing increasing instability, the need for a collective response to address the threat of terrorism has become more pressing. Mahama's comments are expected to resonate with policymakers and stakeholders in the region.
The former President's advocacy for cooperation to combat terrorism is part of a broader effort to promote regional security and stability. His engagement with the international community, including his address at the Council on Foreign Relations, reflects Ghana's commitment to addressing the complex security challenges facing the region.
Key points
- Mahama calls for stronger regional and international cooperation to combat terrorism in the Sahel region.
- The former President attributes the escalation of instability in the Sahel to the aftermath of the Libya conflict, the proliferation of arms, and the movement of terrorist groups.
- Ghana is strengthening surveillance and intelligence-sharing with neighboring countries to protect its borders.
