Ablakwa calls for global support in West Africa’s fight against terrorism
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for stronger international commitment to support West Africa’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
Speaking at a side event on the sidelines of the Conference of Commonwealth Ministers of Foreign Affairs at Chatham House on Monday, March 9, 2026, Mr Ablakwa said the time had come for the United Nations to adopt a resolution that would provide international financial support and troops to help combat terrorism in the sub-region.
He stressed that the threat of terrorism in Africa should not be viewed as a problem limited to the continent, warning that its consequences could have global implications.
“We have always made the point that this requires international cooperation. The international community should not leave this. It's not an African problem because terrorism taking roots is a threat to the entire global community.
“We need to also remember that the challenge we face today are direct consequences of certain actions by the international community. From Afghanistan to Syria to Libya.
“Not having a post-Gadafi plan, how we dealt with the regime change in Libya. We've had to bear the brunt. So, there's a need for that international commitment,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa also raised concerns about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, cautioning that its consequences could worsen the security situation in West Africa.
According to him, as terrorist groups are pushed out of certain regions, they may seek new areas to regroup, potentially shifting their operations towards Africa.
“What is going on now in the Middle East is going to further aggravate the situation. As you chase out the terrorists and dismantle those you don't want close to you, they will have to relocate. Should we allow Africa to be a safe haven where they feel safe, grow and decide to continue to launch attacks on all of us?,” he stated.
The minister reiterated Ghana’s call for coordinated international action, emphasising that collective efforts were essential to prevent the spread of violent extremism across the West African sub-region.
