David Anetey Akrong warns Ghanaians against security complacency

Air Vice Marshal David Anetey Akrong, the Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), has cautioned Ghanaians against becoming complacent about the nation's current peace and stability. Speaking at a workshop in Bolgatanga, Akrong emphasized that the rising threat of violent extremism across the West African sub-region poses a significant risk that requires constant vigilance. He noted that while Ghana has remained relatively stable, its proximity to conflict-affected regions necessitates a proactive approach to prevent security threats from crossing the country's borders.

The workshop was designed to enhance community participation and foster stronger cooperation between citizens and security agencies. Akrong stressed that preventive actions are far more effective than reactive measures, urging local residents to play an active role in safeguarding their communities. He argued that national security should not be viewed as the exclusive domain of the security services, but rather as a collective responsibility involving every member of society.

A central theme of the engagement was the critical need to build trust between the public and the security forces. Akrong highlighted that a lack of mutual confidence often hinders the flow of vital information, making it difficult for agencies to respond to potential threats. By improving communication channels and ensuring that community members feel safe when reporting suspicious activities, the workshop aimed to create a more resilient national security framework at the grassroots level.

The initiative received international backing, with a representative from the Spanish Ambassador to Ghana reaffirming Spain's commitment to supporting the country's peace and security efforts. This international partnership underscores the importance of Ghana's stability within the broader context of West African security. The session concluded with a call for sustained engagement to ensure that local grievances are addressed and that the nation remains alert to the evolving landscape of regional extremism.