Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has urged immediate and united efforts to tackle the escalating security challenges confronting Northern Ghana. He warned that the threat of terrorism remains both real and persistent.
Speaking at the 6th Dialogue of State and Non-State Actors on Peace and Security in Northern Ghana, held in Tamale, the Minister joined key stakeholders to explore strategies for bolstering peace and security across the region.
He pointed to Ghana’s standing as a symbol of peace in an increasingly unstable sub-region, but warned that this reputation is under growing threat. “Though Ghana has not yet been hit by a terrorist attack, the danger is real, unrelenting, and closer than ever,” he cautioned.
The Minister emphasized that addressing these threats demands an inclusive and coordinated approach, adding that peace must be seen as more than “just the absence of conflict—it is also the presence of justice, opportunity, and respect.” He encouraged participants to approach the discussions with “empathy and innovation” to help build a secure and thriving Northern Ghana.
He also called for greater trust-building between local communities and security services, more investment in youth employment, and stronger roles for women and traditional leaders. He urged the media to engage responsibly in supporting peacebuilding efforts and combating false information.
Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John also addressed the gathering, highlighting key regional security concerns such as the Bawku conflict, the Bimbilla chieftaincy impasse, and the crisis in Nanton. He warned that the region’s closeness to neighboring nations increases its exposure to violent extremism, stressing the importance of a coordinated and long-term strategy.
He added that, in addition to extremism, the North continues to face challenges like chieftaincy tensions, land disputes, drug abuse, and cross-border crime, all of which threaten progress and stability.
The dialogue, organized by STAR-Ghana Foundation and its partners, brought together Regional Ministers from the Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East, and Upper West Regions, along with representatives from security agencies, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, and community groups.