Ghana Welcomes Russian Support to Fight Violent Extremism in the Sahel Region

BY: Regina Bless

Ghana has welcomed Russia’s support and cooperation in the country’s efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel Region.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made the call during his official visit to Russia, where he held bilateral discussions with his Russian counterpart, H.E. Sergey Lavrov.

Speaking at a press briefing following the meeting, Mr. Ablakwa expressed the government’s appreciation for Russia’s continued cooperation and support as Ghana works to strengthen its efforts against the growing threat of violent extremism in the Sahel.

The Foreign Affairs Minister, however, emphasised that the fight against terrorism must be driven by Africans themselves. He called for the development of an Africa-led strategy that would receive the necessary support and cooperation from Russia and other international partners.

According to him, a coordinated approach that places African countries at the centre of efforts to address insecurity in the region is essential to achieving sustainable results.

The Sahel Region has in recent years faced increasing threats from terrorist groups and violent extremist organisations, with insecurity affecting communities, economies and regional stability.

Ghana’s position therefore underscores the need for stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing, capacity building and international partnerships to prevent the spread of terrorism and violent extremism into neighbouring countries.

The discussions between Ghana and Russia are expected to further strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of security cooperation and efforts to promote peace and stability across West Africa.

Ghana maintains that while international support remains important, the continent must take ownership of its security challenges and lead the search for lasting solutions to terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel.