Sunyani, (Bono), March 17, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has been commended for his attempts to strengthen bilateral relations between Ghana and Sahel countries.
Mr Raphael Godlove Ahenu, an International human rights advocate, said the President ought to be praised for his efforts towards reintegration of the Sahel countries back into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) too.
“Mr Mahama’s diplomatic initiative is a crucial step towards regional stability and cooperation”, he told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview in Sunyani, highlighting the significance of the President’s vision which would potentially tackle emerging security and economic challenges in the Sahel region.
“President Mahama’s initiative is a beacon of hope for the Sahel countries and the entire West African Region and his commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation is essential for achieving lasting peace and development,” he stated.
The Sahel Region, comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger face significant political and security challenges, which have strained their relationships within the ECOWAS block.
Mr Ahenu, also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the anti-corruption and media advocacy non-governmental organisation, the Global Media Foundation (GloMeF), said, “Mr Mahama’s efforts to bridge that gap is critical that aligns with the principles of human rights and regional solidarity, which are vital for sustainable growth and economic development”.
“By engaging with Sahel leaders and promoting joint initiatives, President Mahama is not only strengthening diplomatic ties but also advocating the rights and well-being of millions of people affected by conflict and political instability on the continent”, he stated.
Mr Ahenu emphasized that regional cooperation remained key to tackling growing terrorism, climate change, and economic disparity in Africa and called on international organizations and other Africa heads of state to support the initiative.
“That initiative being championed by President Mahama has potential to model regional integration and conflict resolution”, he added, saying “the international community must not look unconcern, but rally behind the initiative”, he stated.
Mr Ahenu indicated that President Mahama’s proposals for collaborative security measures, economic partnerships, and cultural exchanges were to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
GNA
DEN/CA