Ghana's President Appoints Retired Army Officer as Special Envoy to Sahel States

Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama has appointed retired army officer Larry Gbevlo-Lartey as the special envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a coalition formed by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. This move signals Ghana's intent to mend ties with these military-led nations and address the region's security and economic challenges.

Historical Context and Issues
The Sahel region has faced significant instability due to a series of military coups between 2020 and 2023, which saw juntas seizing power in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These countries have struggled with persistent terrorism, insurgency, and widespread displacement, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. The formation of the AES in 2023 marked a collective response to these issues, aiming to promote security and economic development independent of traditional regional powers like ECOWAS.

Security and Economic Developments
The Sahel's security landscape has been shaped by the influx of Islamist insurgency groups following the collapse of the Libyan state in 2011. International interventions, such as France's Operation Barkhane, initially aimed to stabilize the region but faced challenges due to local resistance and the eventual withdrawal of foreign troops. The recent coups have further complicated the security situation, with the region witnessing increased violence and displacement.

Economically, the Sahel countries rank among the lowest on the Human Development Index, with Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso occupying positions 188, 189, and 185 out of 193 countries, respectively. The region's economic growth has been hindered by political instability, poor governance, and limited access to resources. However, efforts to improve regional cooperation and economic integration, such as the formation of the AES, offer a glimmer of hope for future development.

Nationalizing Mineral Resources: A Regional Initiative

Inspired by Burkina Faso's bold move to nationalize its gold mines, there is growing momentum among West African countries to form an alliance aimed at reclaiming control over their mineral and natural resources. This initiative seeks to ensure that the wealth generated from these resources directly benefits the citizens of these nations, rather than being siphoned off by foreign entities.

The Case for Nationalization
Burkina Faso's recent nationalization of the Boungou and Wahgnion gold mines has set a precedent for other African nations. By taking control of these resources, Burkina Faso aims to reinvest the profits into critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, thereby fostering sustainable development and economic self-reliance. This approach aligns with the broader vision of resource sovereignty, where nations prioritize their national interests and ensure that their natural wealth is used for the collective good.

Potential Benefits and Challenges
Nationalizing mineral resources can lead to significant economic benefits, including increased revenue for governments, job creation, and improved public services. However, this move also comes with challenges, such as potential deterrence of foreign investment and the need for effective management of the resources. West African countries must carefully navigate these challenges to maximize the benefits of nationalization while maintaining economic stability.

Recommendations for West African Nations
1. Strengthening Regional Cooperation: Ghana's engagement with the AES should focus on fostering collaboration among member states to address shared security concerns and promote economic development. This includes enhancing intelligence sharing, joint military operations, and coordinated efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency.

2. Promoting Good Governance: Addressing the root causes of instability requires improving governance and reducing corruption. Ghana can play a pivotal role in advocating for transparent and accountable leadership within the AES, ensuring that resources are used effectively to benefit the population.

3. Investing in Economic Development: To achieve sustainable growth, the AES should prioritize investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Ghana can support these efforts by providing technical assistance, facilitating access to international funding, and promoting trade and investment opportunities within the region.

4. Engaging with International Partners: While nationalization aims to reduce foreign influence, it is essential to maintain positive relationships with international partners. Engaging with global organizations and investors can help secure funding and technical support for resource management and development projects.

5. Enhancing Humanitarian Assistance: The Sahel's humanitarian crisis demands immediate attention. Ghana, in collaboration with international partners, should work to provide food, shelter, and medical aid to displaced populations, while also addressing the underlying causes of displacement.

Proverb
“When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you.”

By following these recommendations and forging stronger alliances, Ghana and other West African nations can harness their natural resources for the developmental good of their citizens, fostering a more secure and prosperous West Africa.

#Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua