Islamist militants operating in Burkina Faso have quietly established a logistical and medical base in northern Ghana, according to sources, allowing them to support their insurgency without drawing attention. Ghanaian authorities are aware of the cross-border activities but seem reluctant to intervene fully, fearing potential escalation, sources say.
Although Ghana has remained largely untouched by attacks from these militants, the strategy of allowing them to stockpile supplies and treat injured fighters within its borders could risk entrenching militant activity, especially in marginalized communities. Experts warn that while Ghana’s hands-off approach may have helped prevent violence so far, it could lead to future recruitment and local radicalization.
The porous 600-kilometer border Ghana shares with Burkina Faso has become a gateway for militants from groups like JNIM, an al-Qaeda affiliate, which controls significant parts of Burkina Faso and has expressed ambitions to expand into Ghana and neighboring countries. Ghana’s ambassador to Burkina Faso, Boniface Gambila Adagbila, acknowledged that militants are exploiting the border, but denied any formal agreement with them, insisting that Ghana is working to address the issue.
Ghana is viewed as a regional stronghold of democracy and peace, with strong ties to Western nations. However, experts suggest the militants avoid attacking Ghana to protect their supply chains and bases. Despite several incidents tied to violent extremist groups since 2015, Ghana has only seen a small number of violent acts, with most militant activity focused on recruitment, resupplying, or refuge.
As extremist activity grows in the region, experts warn that the current approach may not prevent future violence and could allow militants to strengthen their presence in Ghana.
