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The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has called for an urgent strengthening of security measures along Ghana’s southern and coastal borders to address rising threats from cross-border crime. During a dialogue in Accra focused on maintaining post-election peace, NCCE Chairperson Ms. Kathleen Addy emphasized that while much attention is often directed at the country's northern frontiers, the southern borders have become increasingly vulnerable to activities such as violent extremism and narcotics trafficking. The commission stressed that a proactive approach is necessary to ensure that these areas do not become safe havens for criminal elements.
Ms. Addy highlighted the need for a holistic security strategy that combines state-level interventions with grassroots vigilance. She noted that the peace and stability Ghana enjoys must be actively protected through constant collaboration between security agencies and local communities. The NCCE is advocating for nationwide awareness programs that educate citizens on the early warning signs of radicalization and the importance of reporting suspicious activities. By building community resilience, the commission aims to create a robust defense mechanism that can withstand the influence of organized crime and extremist ideologies.
Major General Tim Ba-Taa-Banah, participating in the dialogue, elaborated on the geographical vulnerabilities Ghana faces due to its proximity to regional hotspots of organized crime. He specifically identified "citizen complicity" as a significant challenge, where local individuals may assist criminal networks for economic or social reasons. The Major General argued that security is a shared responsibility, emphasizing that the effectiveness of border patrols is significantly enhanced when local residents act as informants and partners to the security services. He called for a shift in mindset to ensure that every citizen recognizes their role in national security.
To complement these security efforts, experts at the forum called for the establishment of community peace structures and targeted socioeconomic development in border regions. Addressing issues like poverty and limited access to opportunities is seen as critical to reducing the susceptibility of young people to radicalization. The NCCE concluded that maintaining Ghana's reputation as a stable and peaceful nation requires a commitment to addressing both the physical security of its borders and the underlying social conditions that foster crime. The commission pledged to continue its work in civic engagement to fortify the nation's democratic foundations.