Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing the security challenges facing Northern Ghana. He noted that the threat of terrorism is real and persistent, and as such requires a comprehensive approach to prevent and mitigate its effects.
The Minister made these remarks at the 6th Dialogue of State and Non-State Actors on Peace and Security in Northern Ghana, which took place in Tamale, bringing together key stakeholders to address pressing peace and security challenges in the region.
Hon. Muntaka highlighted Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of peace in a volatile region, stressing that the stability is under threat as violent extremism spreads southward from the Sahel toward the Gulf of Guinea. “While Ghana has not yet suffered a terrorist attack on its soil, the threat is real, persistent, and closer than ever before,” he warned.
The Minister reaffirmed Government’s dedication to ensuring every Ghanaian feels safe and empowered, emphasising that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, opportunity, and mutual respect. He urged participants to approach the dialogue with empathy and innovation to foster a prosperous Northern Ghana.
He called on all stakeholders to prioritise building trust between communities and security agencies, investing in youth employment and development, empowering women and traditional authorities, and promoting responsible media.
In his welcome remarks, the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, noted that the region faces notable security threats, including the Bawku conflict, Bimbilla chieftaincy stalemate, and Nanton chieftaincy crisis. He also acknowledged that the region’s proximity to neighbouring countries raises concerns about potential violent extremism spillovers, reiterating the importance of collective efforts in tackling challenges such as chieftaincy disputes, land conflicts, substance abuse, and cross-border crimes.
The dialogue, organised by the STAR-Ghana Foundation and its partners, saw participation from Regional Ministers of the Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West regions, alongside representatives from security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, and community stakeholders.
