Mahama, EU Envoy Hold Talks on Strengthening Security Collaboration in the Sahel

President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday welcomed João Cravinho, the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel, to Accra for high-level discussions aimed at deepening cooperation between Ghana and the European Union in addressing security and governance challenges across the Sahel Region.

The meeting underscored both parties’ commitment to reinforcing their long-standing strategic partnership at a time when regional stability remains under significant threat from terrorism and violent extremism.

President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to proactive diplomacy, particularly in mediating relations with the Alliance of Sahel States — comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. He noted that Ghana views stronger regional cooperation, including the revitalisation of the Accra Initiative, as crucial to developing a united front against the rising tide of insecurity in West Africa.

He highlighted that while Ghana’s developmental progress has strengthened national resilience, there remains a need to bolster capacity in key areas to effectively respond to evolving security pressures.

President Mahama further expressed his satisfaction with the EU’s commitment to continue supporting Ghana, especially in enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Both sides have also agreed to fast-track the EU-Ghana Security and Defence Partnership to improve overall coordination in tackling shared security concerns.

The discussions mark another step in ongoing efforts to build a safer and more stable sub-region through cooperation, diplomacy, and sustained international partnerships.