Ghana's Security Crossroads: Would A Unified Approach Combat Environmental Degradation and Transnational Threats?

As Ghana resets its bankrupted national economy, it stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey, facing the dual threats of environmental degradation and transnational crimes, including cybercrime and illicit mining (galamsey). The recent demolition of a sprawling shanty town within the Western Region's Subri Forest Reserve, home to thousands of individuals engaged in galamsey, and the arrest of 219 individuals suspected of cybercrime and human trafficking at the La Nkwantanang Municipal Assemly community of Oyarifa, in the Greater Accra Region underscore the need for a more effective security framework.

A unified security approach, merging non-military security agencies and the Forestry Commission into a fourth armed service, akin to Italy's Carabinieri, offers a promising solution. This fourth service would prioritise the protection of Ghana's natural heritage, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our biodiversity-rich watershed areas, while also addressing transnational threats.

Preserving Biodiversity and Climate Resilience

Healthy watersheds play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change, such as droughts and floods. By preserving these areas, we can support Ghana's long-term development and prosperity.

Addressing Transnational Threats
The presence of foreign nationals in galamsey and cybercrime activities poses a significant risk to Ghana's national security, potentially creating vulnerabilities that extremist groups might exploit. A unified security approach would enable more effective monitoring and disruption of these threats.

Enhancing Data Sharing through ECOWAS and AfCFTA

To support this unified security approach, we propose leveraging existing regional frameworks, such as the ECOWAS free movement protocol and the AfCFTA, to facilitate data sharing. Mandatory exit visas for foreign nationals and citizens travelling within the ECOWAS and AfCFTA regions could provide valuable insights into their activities and movements, enhancing Ghana's ability to track and address transnational threats.

Benefits of Mandatory Exit Visas
The implementation of mandatory exit visas could have numerous benefits, including:

- Tracking and preventing illicit activities, such as human trafficking, cybercrime, and illicit mining

- Enhancing regional security through data sharing and intelligence cooperation

- Supporting commerce and economic growth by reducing crime and insecurity

Youth Recommendations
To ensure the success of this unified security approach, we recommend:

- Establishing clear guidelines for access and use of forest reserves

- Engaging with local communities to understand their needs and concerns

- Ensuring proportionate measures that do not unfairly impact specific groups or individuals

- Enhancing intelligence gathering and sharing to address transnational threats

Call to Action
In conclusion, a unified security approach is crucial for Ghana's future. We urge policymakers and stakeholders to consider this proposal and work towards creating a safer, more secure environment for all Ghanaians. By working together, we can protect our natural heritage, address transnational threats, and support sustainable development.

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