By Iddi Yire
Accra, Oct 09, GNA – The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has congratulated the Government of Ghana on officially depositing its Instrument of Ratification for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).
This, the Foundation said, marks the milestone on the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.
Madam Theodora W. Anti, the Executive Director, FOSDA, in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) said this historic act reaffirms Ghana’s steadfast commitment to global peace, nuclear disarmament, and the safeguarding of future generations from the existential threat of nuclear weapons.
The statement said it also strengthens Africa’s legacy as the only continent to have declared itself a nuclear weapon free zone under the Treaty of Pelin Daba.
It said the declaration by Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the United Nations, that, “Nuclear disarmament is not an utopian dream – it is achievable,” echoes the visionary ideals of Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who championed a world free from nuclear terror.
It said the FOSDA commends Ghana’s leadership at a time when global confidence in disarmament frameworks is waning.
It noted that this ratification sends a resounding message: African nations are not only peacebuilders but also torchbearers of ethical global governance.
“For Ghana, ratifying the TPNW amplifies Ghana’s voice in international diplomacy and affirms its role as a moral leader in peace and security,” it said.
“It aligns with the nation’s enduring advocacy for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the prevention of proliferation”.
The statement said for Africa, Ghana’s action reinforces the continent’s collective stance against nuclear weapons and encourages other African states to accelerate ratification and implementation of key disarmament instruments.
It said for the World, this act means that in the midst of rising geopolitical tensions and stalled disarmament negotiations, Ghana’s ratification renews hope and calls on nuclear armed states to honor their obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and related frameworks.
The statement said FOSDA is therefore using the press statement to make the following call to Action: Firstly, African governments to emulate Ghana’s example and ratify the TPNW without delay.
Secondly, youth led movements to amplify disarmament advocacy and educate communities on the dangers of nuclear weapons.
Thirdly, civil society organisations must collaborate across borders to hold nuclear armed states accountable.
Fourthly, international partners to support Africa’s peace architecture and invest in
disarmament education.
Fifthly, policymakers embed disarmament into national development and security strategies.
The statement said as a peace and security think tank rooted in African values and global solidarity, FOSDA remains committed to advancing nuclear disarmament, amplifying youth voices, and promoting ethical governance across the continent.
“Ghana has spoken. Africa is watching. The world must act now!” FOSDA said.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah