Ghana and EU Sign Historic Security and Defence Partnership

Ghana and the European Union have officially signed a groundbreaking security and defence partnership, marking the first-ever such agreement between the EU and an African nation.

The deal was finalized during a high-level visit by EU Vice President Kaja Kallas, who held discussions with Ghana’s Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang at the Jubilee House. Both delegations then proceeded to the National Security Council Secretariat for further engagements.

Kallas hailed the agreement as a major milestone, highlighting its importance in strengthening cooperation amid rising global and regional security challenges. “This is the first security and defence partnership we are signing with any African country. It demonstrates how much we value our relationship with Ghana,” she stated.

She emphasized that the partnership will foster deeper collaboration in critical areas, including counterterrorism, cybersecurity, conflict prevention, and border and maritime security. According to Kallas, the security of Europe and Africa is “deeply interconnected,” making stronger alliances crucial in addressing security threats.

Kallas also voiced concerns about increasing insecurity in West Africa, referencing the recent killings in Burkina Faso, and warned against the exploitation of vulnerable Africans in global conflicts.

Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang expressed strong support for the agreement, stating that security is the bedrock of all development. “Without peace and security, we cannot talk about economic relationships, human relations, or cultural exchange,” she emphasized.

She further noted Ghana’s long-standing relationship with the EU and stated that the new agreement would not only strengthen these ties but also provide a structured framework for cooperation in crisis management, peace operations, and capacity building.

At the National Security Council Secretariat, the National Security Coordinator highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships in tackling evolving and complex threats. He pointed out that EU support, including training programmes and equipment donations, has significantly bolstered the capabilities of Ghana’s security and intelligence agencies.

The partnership will also bring additional support from the EU, such as the provision of security equipment, including vehicles, communication systems, drones, and motorcycles, to enhance operational readiness.

Officials revealed that more than 30 EU-backed security projects are currently underway in Ghana, focusing on areas such as counterterrorism, border management, maritime security, and cybersecurity. Additionally, numerous training programmes have been conducted for both military and civilian personnel.

This new agreement builds on earlier collaborations under EU initiatives such as the European Peace Facility, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, marginalization, and youth unemployment.

Both Ghana and the European Union expressed optimism that the new partnership will foster deeper cooperation and contribute to peace and stability in Ghana, as well as in the wider West African region.

Story:Efua Nessa

Source:Loco tv