Tourism has always been a significant contributor to the progress of the African continent.
The region earns billions of dollars in revenue from tourism, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe eager to explore its diverse offerings. Ghana, known for its warm and welcoming people, has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking a safe and authentic African experience.
The country’s diverse tourist attractions, ranging from historical sites to stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural displays, offer something for every kind of tourist. From the bustling capital of Accra to the serene beaches along the coast and the savannahs of the north, there is no shortage of captivating destinations to explore.
As evidenced by its ranking as the fourth safest country in Africa by World Population Review and 51st on the Global Peace Index, Ghana continues to be a model of peace and security on the continent. As one tourist aptly described:
“I feel quite safe in Ghana when we go around the city, when we travel, and when we take the trotro. For me, I feel safe. Also, in the streets, it feels quite safe to walk around, even if people stop us a lot to engage in conversations. It seems they always understand when it’s too much. I think I also feel safe because I can rely on people. People are always open to help and guide, so it lowers the risks of being caught in a bad situation. I like that there are so many historical sites/museums, but also so many beautiful natural sites and reserves. I think Ghana is super diverse in terms of tourist destinations, and there’s something for everyone.”
Initiatives like the Year of Return and Beyond the Return have successfully lured the African diaspora back to their ancestral home, fostering a sense of safety and belonging.
These initiatives have not only showcased Ghana’s rich cultural heritage but have also bolstered the country’s reputation as a secure tourist destination. As a result, Ghana has climbed to the 9th position among Africa’s top 10 tourist destinations and ranks 1st in West Africa, according to the World Economic Forum. In 2023 alone, the country welcomed approximately 1.1 million tourists, contributing a substantial $3.6 billion to its GDP.
The allure of Ghana’s vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere has attracted international celebrities like Boris Kodjoe, Idris Elba, Letitia Wright, Stevie Wonder, and Gabrielle Union, further solidifying its position as a must-visit destination.
As terrorism threats continue to increase and spread across the African continent, specifically in the Sahel, Ghana remains a beacon of peace and stability. With terrorist activities prevalent in countries like Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, Mozambique, Kenya, Benin, Togo, and Uganda, concerns about Africa as a safe travel destination have grown among those outside the continent.
Terrorist attacks have led to loss of lives, property, and food security, and have economically destabilized many countries within Africa. The continent’s challenges in national security and intelligence gathering have raised questions about its capacity to combat terrorism effectively.
Ghana, however, stands out as a positive example. The country has a long history of democratic governance, social cohesion, and peaceful existence, ranking fourth among the ten most peaceful African countries in 2024, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace.
Additionally, Ghana was the first country to gain independence in sub-Saharan Africa in 1957. Since independence, the country has held eight free and fair elections, leading to peaceful political transitions. According to the 2023 Democracy Index, Ghana scored 6.3 out of 10, ranking 65th globally, fourth in sub-Saharan Africa, and third in West Africa.
The country stands in contrast to the dire trends seen elsewhere, playing an essential role in promoting regional peace and economic development. Ghana is now considered safer to travel to than many popular destinations.
Ghana’s low crime rate has further proven the country’s safety to travelers.
The crime rate has significantly fluctuated between 2018 and 2022. In 2018, the crime rate was 1.62 per 100,000 population, which increased by 11.84% to 1.81 in 2019.
However, it decreased by 4.79% to 1.72 in 2020, followed by a 6.49% increase to 1.84 in 2021. The crime rate dropped drastically to 0.00 in 2022, indicating a 100% decline from previous years, making Ghana a safer travel destination.
According to the 2024 Mid-Year Crime Index by Country, Ghana ranked 79th globally with a crime rate index of 45.4. South Africa and Nigeria ranked first and second respectively in the crime index among African countries. For instance, South Africa, one of the most visited countries on the African continent with close to 3.8 million international tourists in 2020, is considered the most dangerous, hosting various forms of crimes such as murder, robbery, fraud, sexual offences, financial crimes, and human trafficking, with about 1.1 million households being victims of burglary in 2022/2023.
South Africa’s crime index is 74.8, followed by Nigeria at 66.7, Angola at 66.1, Somalia at 65.9, Cameroon at 64.9, Namibia at 63.7, Mozambique at 63.6, Zimbabwe at 60.8, Ivory Coast at 57.3, Kenya at 55.9, Libya at 55.6, Uganda at 54.7, Tanzania at 54, Botswana at 52.6, Algeria at 52.2, and Ethiopia at 50.1.
Ghana’s safety over the years has not been due to luck but to the efforts of its effective security agencies. Millions of dollars are invested into the national security of the country every year, resulting in its effectiveness in preserving peace and security. To combat terrorism, the government established a National Framework For The Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism and Terrorism. The framework puts all ministries in action in a collaborative approach, placing the Ghana Police Service (GPS) as the primary responder in the four pillars of the National Framework, with support from other agencies.
Roles and Responsibilities of Departments and Agencies as Stated in the National Framework for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism in Ghana (NAFPCVET)
Ghana Police Service (GPS): The GPS is the lead agency for maintaining law and order and preventing and detecting crime. It is the first responder in the four pillars of NAFPCVET, with support from other security agencies. The GPS will update the crime registry and store information digitally for easy access. In collaboration with the BNI, RD, NIS, GIS, GCAA, GMA, NIA, NCSC, and the Ministries of National Security, Interior, and Defence, it will ensure that firearms and explosives are not illegally imported and unlawfully used in the country. It will also monitor and control the sale, distribution, and use of materials that may be used in making IEDs.
Ghana Armed Forces (GAF): The GAF will establish a robust Counter-Terrorism (CT) Unit and coordinate all CT efforts with other security agencies. In the event of any terrorist attack that exceeds the capacity of civil response, the GAF will support the Pre-empt, Protect, and Respond aspects of NAFPCVET through appropriate military response, in coordination with the NCTC and other security agencies.
Bureau of National Investigations (BNI): The BNI is the lead agency for information and intelligence collection and collation on all components of internal security as well as for preventing and detecting violent extremism and terror-related activities. It will collaborate with the Ministry of Information and the NCTC to develop public enlightenment programs that will sensitize the public.
Research Department (RD): The RD is the lead agency for external information and intelligence collection and collation and, in conjunction with relevant MDAs, will monitor all violent extremism and terror-related activities in the Pre-empt, Prevent, and Protect strands of NAFPCVET.
Bureau of National Communications (BNC): The BNC will provide secure and reliable communication links to support the operations of security forces and intelligence agencies in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): The NCSC is responsible for monitoring cyberspace to detect the use of cyber means by extremist groups and terrorists. It will alert all intelligence and security agencies of any suspected activities.
Ghana Immigration Service (GIS): The GIS will control and monitor immigration activities at all entry and exit points in the country. It will complement all internal security efforts through effective manning of major entry points and the patrolling of land borders.
Ghana Revenue Authority – Customs Division (GRA-CD): The GRA-CD will collaborate with other agencies to support and enforce the prevention of the illegal importation of arms, ammunition, and illicit drugs.
Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC): In conjunction with other relevant financial institutions, the FIC is responsible for the receipt and analysis of financial disclosures and currency transactions. It will report suspicious transactions and disseminate financial intelligence to competent authorities.
Ghana Prisons Service: The Ghana Prisons Service will develop the capacity for prison personnel and institutions to tackle the issue of de-radicalization of convicted terrorists and those awaiting trials.
National Communications Authority (NCA)
The NCA is responsible for regulating telecommunication services in Ghana. It ensures the efficient use of the radio frequency spectrum and other scarce communications resources for both security operations and civil uses. The NCA plays a crucial role in detecting, disrupting, and deterring unauthorized use of radio frequencies in Ghana. It aims to expand the national call center for information dissemination to rural communities and to reinvigorate and enforce regulations for National Communications. The Authority is also responsible for regulating frequencies for radio and TV broadcasts, allocating frequencies, and monitoring transmissions in consultation with the National Media Commission (NMC) where necessary. The National Digital Terrestrial Television Transmission Network, which is the primary platform for Free-to-Air terrestrial TV, is a critical national infrastructure. The NCA must ensure that it is secure, reliable, and available through regulatory and other means. The NCA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and other relevant agencies, must introduce measures to reduce the vulnerability of Ghana’s cyberspace and infrastructure, protecting them from exploitation by terrorist networks.
National Identification Authority (NIA)
The NIA is responsible for issuing identity cards to eligible Ghanaians and legal residents, maintaining a proper record and database of all categories of persons. The NIA’s database is vital for tracking suspected extremists by the intelligence community, the NCTC, and the GPS.
Bank of Ghana (BOG)
The BOG, in collaboration with the FIC, will work closely with the Ministry of National Security (MNS) and other security agencies to monitor unusual or suspicious movements of funds, particularly those related to violent extremist groups and terrorism financing.
Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)
EOCO will collaborate with relevant agencies to investigate financial crimes, money laundering, and terrorist financing, supporting the Prevent and Pre-empt pillars of the NAFPCVET.
Narcotics Control Commission (NCC)
The NCC will work with other security agencies and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enforce the prevention of the cultivation, production, manufacture, sale, distribution, abuse, importation, and exportation of illicit drugs and substances, as well as the diversion of precursor chemicals for illicit purposes.
Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
The GCAA is the lead agency for the oversight, safety, and security of air travel. It will ensure the periodic review of aviation security protocols and support relevant agencies with the screening of air travelers and their baggage. It will educate these agencies on proper screening practices in the following air security areas:
a. Pre-board screening.
b. Hold baggage screening.
c. Non-passenger screening for restricted areas.
d. Safety of approaches to airports for safe take-off and landing.
e. Progressive erection of perimeter fences at airports.
National Petroleum Authority (NPA)
The NPA ensures the security and safety of petroleum product distribution. In collaboration with other agencies, the NPA will develop a contingency plan against violent extremist activities and terror-related disruptions. The NPA will secure the operation of the downstream and upstream sectors of the petroleum industry.
National Road Safety Commission (NRSC)
The NRSC will provide support data for the Prevent and Protect strands of the NAFPCVET.
Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA)
The GRDA has the exclusive right to operate rail services in Ghana and contributes to employment generation and the transportation of goods and services. The GRDA will also help prevent the transportation of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and other offensive weapons by terrorists through the railway system.
Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA)
The GPHA governs and operates all ports in Ghana, including the Tema and Takoradi Ports. Operations of the GPHA are carried out under the Ministry of Transport in conjunction with the Ghana Shippers Council. The GPHA will ensure that terrorists do not import or export IEDs and other offensive materials into the country and will develop a security strategy for the protection of all ports.
Food and Drug Authority (FDA)
The FDA is charged with the detection of fake drugs and drug money. It will ensure the importation and distribution of safe drugs devoid of violent extremist and terrorist-induced contamination.
National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO)
NADMO is the coordinating body for disaster management and emergency response in the country. It will provide appropriate leadership and direction to other relevant agencies on counter-terrorism response matters to ensure resilience. NADMO will create Disaster Response Teams at regional, district, and local government levels. It will also coordinate training in Disaster Risk Reduction and related efforts and encourage regular joint training activities for stakeholders.
National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE)
The NCCE will serve as an information tool, responsible for the education and dissemination of government programs and activities. In collaboration with other relevant agencies, the NCCE will develop security consciousness and situational awareness through concerted media campaigns. The NCCE will engage with communities to ensure better security through civic education and promote activities that foster social inclusiveness and community cohesion. It will identify signs of radicalization early and integrate them into early warning systems. The NCCE will embark on a nationwide campaign to promote the installation of CCTV by public and private organizations, individuals, and corporate bodies as a preventive measure against terrorist activities.
National Peace Council (NPC)
The NPC will support the NAFPCVET with programs and engagements to help build resilience against violent extremism and terrorism in the country. The NPC will organize activities to prevent the radicalization of youth and vulnerable groups through sustained efforts to prevent extremism. Using the Regional and District Peace Councils, the NPC will partner with CSOs to coordinate preventive educational awareness programs in various communities, focusing on promoting dialogue and tolerance.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
The NCTC under the MNS will partner with CSOs in all facets of its programs on violent extremism and counter-terrorism, particularly in the following areas:
Addressing conditions conducive to the spread of extremism and terrorism, including human rights, conflict resolution, rule of law, social, political, and economic issues. CSOs will engage in outreach activities and proactive steps to address the root causes of terrorism.
Targeting cooperation programs that focus on promoting dialogue and tolerance.
Providing policy advice and expertise on aspects of preventing terrorism and developing security consciousness and situational awareness through sustained public enlightenment campaigns.
Mobilizing and sensitizing the general public on how to respond to major emergency security situations.
The Ghanaian government continues to strengthen the security of the country day by day. With the installation of over 10,000 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at strategic points nationwide under the surveillance program dubbed the “Alpha Project,” $400 million has been invested into this initiative. This demonstrates the country’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its people. Another measure implemented was the “SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING” campaign, which was a success, receiving an average of 13,000 calls daily. This campaign aimed to raise awareness of potential terrorism threats in the country and encourage the public to report suspicious activities to security agencies.
It is important to recognize that the safety of Ghana as a country and travel destination has been the result not only of governmental efforts but also the active participation of its citizens. Ghanaians are known globally for being very welcoming. Their obedience to rules and regulations has contributed immensely to the peace and security of the country.
By: Nimako M. Derrick
Intelligence analyst / Journalist