A high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, has officially paid a working visit to the Executive Secretariat of the Accra Initiative in Accra.

The visit, which took place from 15 to 16 May 2023, sought to enhance cooperation between ECOWAS and the Accra Initiative in the fight against terrorism, violent extremism, and transnational organized crime.

During the visit, the two parties acknowledged the convergence of their visions and highlighted the synergistic relationship between the actions of the Accra Initiative and the ECOWAS strategy in addressing terrorism and transnational organised crime.

In addition, the ECOWAS delegation undertook a site visit to the multinational Joint Task Force of the Accra Initiative (MNJTF-AI) located in Tamale, Ghana, which is a key component of the Accra initiative aimed at addressing security challenges in the region.

The purpose of the visit was twofold: to assess the operational capabilities and preparedness of the MNJTF in combating terrorism and to acquaint themselves with its current state.

Major General Michael Amoah-Ayisi, Commander of the MNJTF, emphasised the importance of using non-kinetic approaches to encourage local communities to provide crucial information to combat the threat of terrorism and transnational organised crimes in West Africa.

Ambassador Musah praised the foresight of ECOWAS Member States in establishing the Accra Initiative and assured the ECOWAS Commission's unwavering support for the operations of the Joint Task Force.

Furthermore, he extended his appreciation to the esteemed authorities of the Republic of Ghana and Mr. Benedict Dere, the Executive Secretary of the Accra Initiative, for their warm reception of the ECOWAS delegation.

He reiterated that the reinforced partnership holds the promise of producing fruitful outcomes in the joint endeavor to eliminate terrorism and foster peace and prosperity throughout West Africa.