Accra, March 24, – Ghana and the European Union (EU) have signed a landmark Security and Defence Partnership, marking the first such agreement between the EU and an African country.
Strengthening Strategic Security Ties
The agreement, signed in Accra, aims to deepen cooperation in tackling emerging security threats in Ghana and across the West African sub-region.
It was formalised by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on behalf of Ghana and Ms Kaja Kallas, High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission, representing the EU.
Areas of Cooperation
The partnership establishes a structured framework for collaboration in:
Counter-terrorism
Conflict prevention
Cyber security
Border management
Maritime security
Peace support operations
The initiative is expected to enhance Ghana’s crisis response capacity and strengthen regional security coordination, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea and the Sahel.
Equipment and Capacity Support
As part of the agreement, the EU handed over critical security equipment, including:
Surveillance drones and anti-drone systems
Communication and intelligence-gathering tools
Motorcycles for field operations
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang described the partnership as a significant step in building operational readiness and capacity within Ghana’s security services.
Ongoing EU Support
She disclosed that over 30 EU-supported security projects are currently underway in Ghana, alongside 40 training programmes for both military and civilian personnel under the EU’s Security and Defence Initiative in the Gulf of Guinea.
The Vice President noted that rising insecurity in the region, including attacks affecting Ghanaian traders in neighbouring countries, underscores the urgency for stronger international collaboration.
A New Phase in Relations
Ms Kallas said the agreement signalled a new phase in EU-Ghana relations, stressing the interconnected nature of global security.
She revealed that the EU had committed about €50 million in security support to Ghana since 2023, covering equipment and training.
National Security Perspective
The National Security Coordinator, COP Osman Abdul-Razak, described the agreement as a major milestone, reinforcing Ghana’s ability to respond to evolving threats.
He said it demonstrated a shared commitment to addressing both security challenges and their root causes, including poverty, marginalisation, and youth unemployment.
Looking Ahead
The partnership builds on existing EU initiatives such as the European Peace Facility and is expected to play a key role in sustaining peace, stability, and security across West Africa.
GHBUSS
March 24, 2026
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