Omanghana
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has called for closer collaboration between Ghana and the European Union (EU) to tackle the growing threat of transnational organized crime, warning that modern criminal networks operate across borders and require coordinated international responses.
Speaking during the second session of the 2026 Ghana-European Union Partnership Dialogue on Peace and Security in Accra, the minister stressed that no country can effectively confront increasingly sophisticated criminal syndicates in isolation.
Push for Enhanced Intelligence Sharing
A key component of the minister’s proposal is the expansion of intelligence-sharing mechanisms between Ghana and the EU. He urged both sides to establish more robust systems for the real-time exchange of security information to help identify and dismantle cross-border criminal operations.
According to Muntaka, timely intelligence is essential for intercepting organized crime networks involved in activities that threaten regional and international security.
Strengthening Security Through Capacity Building
The Interior Minister also appealed for increased support from the European Union in building the capabilities of Ghana’s security agencies. He called for targeted training program and technical assistance to enhance the skills of personnel responsible for detecting, preventing, and disrupting illicit activities.
He noted that equipping law enforcement officers with advanced knowledge and operational tools would improve Ghana’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges.
Focus on Border Security
Muntaka further highlighted the importance of strengthening border management as part of a broader strategy to combat organized crime. He said enhanced cooperation should focus on protecting transit corridors from smuggling, illicit trade, and irregular migration while improving surveillance and enforcement measures.
The minister argued that securing national borders is critical to preventing criminal organizations’ from exploiting regional movement and trade routes.
Dialogue Emphasizes Trade, Security and Development
The peace and security discussions formed part of the wider 2026 Ghana-European Union Partnership Dialogue hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Opening the broader engagement, President John Dramani Mahama called on the European Union to reshape its relationship with Ghana by shifting from a traditional aid-based approach toward stronger partnerships centered on trade, investment, and industrialization.
Government Continues Domestic Peace Efforts
Alongside calls for enhanced international cooperation, Muntaka reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing internal security challenges.
He disclosed that the Ministry of the Interior is working with the National Peace Council to intensify mediation efforts aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict in Bawku, describing dialogue and reconciliation as key components of the government’s strategy to promote lasting peace and stability.
Source: Omanghana
