In response to the growing security threats in West Africa, Ghana and the European Union have taken an unprecedented step. On 24 March, Accra and Brussels signed their very first security and defence partnership. This strategic agreement is designed to curb the spread of terrorism in the region.
This marks a turning point in security cooperation between West Africa and Europe. Ghana and the European Union have forged an unprecedented partnership to tackle regional insecurity, against a backdrop of the growing influence of jihadist groups in the Sahel. The agreement was signed on 24 March 2026 by the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, and Ghana’s Vice-President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang. It provides for enhanced cooperation in the fight against terrorism, intelligence-sharing and crisis management.
“The transfer of security equipment, including motorcycles and drones, to Ghana, which took place today, will significantly bolster our ongoing efforts to develop the capabilities and operational readiness of Ghana’s security forces. It will also strengthen Ghana’s ability to respond to emerging threats and support our goal of promoting peace and stability.”
JANE NAANA OPOKU-AGYEMANG, Vice-President – Ghana
This partnership forms part of a wider programme launched in 2023 by the European Union, with a budget of €50 million. It includes the provision of security equipment to Ghana. Following the signing, military equipment was handed over to the Ghanaian authorities, including surveillance drones and anti-drone systems. For the authorities, this cooperation is of strategic importance: it aims to strengthen the country’s capabilities in the face of emerging threats and to ensure national stability.
“This is the first project of its kind in Africa. And it is important because security in Europe and Africa is deeply interconnected. The new agreement allows us to work more closely together in areas such as counter-terrorism, conflict prevention and cyber security. All these areas are important for our citizens, both in Europe and here in Ghana.”
KAJA KALLAS, Head of European Diplomacy – Estonia
In a region plagued by terrorism, the security situation remains a cause for concern. According to data from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), more than 450 terrorist attacks were recorded between January and November 2025, claiming more than 1,900 lives. Against this backdrop, Ghana intends to strengthen its security apparatus in order to contain the expansion of armed groups and better secure its borders, thereby contributing to the stability of the entire West African region.
