News
President Akufo-Addo advocates for strengthened regional security mechanisms at IDEC 2024
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, speaking at the opening of the Second International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEC) 2024, called for a comprehensive strategy to address the diverse security challenges facing Africa.
Held at the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters in Accra, the conference gathered defence experts and stakeholders to discuss ways to enhance regional mechanisms for addressing contemporary security issues.
The President highlighted the interconnected nature of security threats on the continent, ranging from terrorism and organized crime to cybersecurity and climate-induced risks.
“The security landscape in Africa is characterized by a variety of threats that are interconnected and often transcend national borders,” he said. “Given the transnational nature of these threats, no single African country can address them alone. It is only through regional cooperation and collaboration that we can effectively counter these challenges,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo proposed several strategies to strengthen regional security mechanisms, including enhancing intelligence sharing and coordination, building capacity for peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations, and establishing the ECOWAS Standby Force.
He emphasized the importance of intelligence sharing, stating, “Effective intelligence sharing and coordination among African nations are crucial for preempting and responding to security threats. Intelligence is the lifeblood of security operations, and without timely and accurate information, our efforts will be in vain.”
The President also called for increased investment in building the capacity of security forces to undertake peacekeeping and counter-terrorism operations.
He stressed the need for specialized training to deal with both traditional and non-traditional threats, including cyber threats. Additionally, he underscored the importance of establishing the ECOWAS Standby Force to respond swiftly and effectively to threats and uphold democratic governance.
On the issue of maritime security, President Akufo-Addo urged African nations to enhance their maritime security capabilities to protect their vast coastlines and maritime resources.
He advocated for increased investment in naval and coast guard assets, as well as greater cooperation between coastal states.
“Africa’s vast coastline and maritime resources are a critical part of our economic development. We should enhance our maritime security capabilities to protect these resources from illegal activities,” he stated.
Addressing the impact of climate change on security, President Akufo-Addo called for integrating climate security considerations into national and regional security strategies. He emphasized the need for climate adaptation and mitigation measures to enhance the resilience of communities to climate-related shocks.
The President concluded his address by calling for inclusive governance and development to address the root causes of insecurity.
He stated, “Security is not just the absence of violence; it is also the presence of justice, equity, and opportunity. We should address the root causes of insecurity by fostering inclusive governance and promoting sustainable development.”
As the conference progresses, President Akufo-Addo expressed hope for fruitful discussions that would lead to actionable outcomes, contributing to a more secure and prosperous Africa.
“By enhancing our regional mechanisms and fostering closer cooperation among African nations, we can build a safer and more secure continent for future generations,” he concluded.
News
‘Thousands of Ghanaian women suffering from Obstetric Fistula’
Thousands of Ghanaian women continue to suffer in silence from Obstetric Fistula (OF) due to inadequate access to surgical treatment, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has revealed.
Dr Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA’s Country Representative, disclosed that over the past decade, Ghana has accumulated a backlog of more than 12,000 untreated cases, despite recording an estimated 1,300 new cases each year.
He made the remarks during a visit to the New Times Corporation (NTC) in Accra to mark the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF).
“Only 1,000 repairs have been done in 10 years. That leaves thousands of women isolated, in pain, and excluded from society due to a condition that is both preventable and treatable,” Dr Ochan said.
He stressed the need for greater investment in surgical capacity, public awareness, and partnership, especially with the private sector— to accelerate Ghana’s efforts to eliminate the condition by 2030.
Obstetric Fistula results from prolonged or obstructed labour without timely medical care, causing a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum, leading to continuous leakage of urine or faeces. The consequences include stigma, chronic incontinence, and often, the death of the baby.
To help close the treatment gap, the UNFPA is working with health institutions including the Komfo Anokye and Cape Coast Teaching hospitals to scale up surgeries and outreach.
“We must not allow women to suffer lifelong trauma for simply trying to give life,” Dr Ochan urged.
The Managing Director, Mr Martin Adu-Owusu, pledged NTC’s support in raising public awareness and promoting maternal health initiatives.
“We are ready to collaborate with you to ensure that maternal deaths and issues affecting women come down to the barest minimum so that together we can achieve the UN goal to eliminating Obstetric Fistula by 2030,” he said
By Esinam Jemima Esinam
News
Inflated prices of Abaya, Jalabiya on Eid-al-Adha celebration
Muslims in Ghana and all over the world yesterday observed the Eid-al-Adha celebration.
It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the month-long dawn-to-dusk fasting of Ramadan.
The build up to yesterday’s edition was characterised by a high demand for traditional Islamic attire here in Tamale, leading to a sharp rise in prices.
Checks by The Spectator from the various markets in the Tamale area revealed that prices for popular outfits like the Abaya, Jalabiya, and Kaftan have skyrocketed within the period.
Although there is no prescribed outfit for the celebration, many Muslims in Tamale traditionally choose modest and loose-fitting garments that reflect Islamic values.
Abayas and Jalabiyas often imported from Turkey, Dubai, Egypt, and Northern Nigeria have become particularly the most sought-after attires, resulting in the price hikes.
Currently, prices for men’s attire range from GH₵250 to GH₵800 while women’s outfits are selling from GH₵350 to GH₵1000.
Children’s garments are also not left out of the pricing craze. Bargaining for the youngsters starts from GH₵150.
Hajia Naila Abdul Karim, owner of ‘Cover with Style,’ confirmed a significant surge in sales in the holy month.
“Each day, more than 20 people, mostly women walk into the shop. We also send over 40 parcels daily to customers across the country,” she stated.
She attributed the price increases to the cedi’s depreciation and a recent shortage of Turkish imports, noting that most of her stock now comes from Dubai.
Hamdia Kamil, a loyal customer, shared her experience: “Two years ago, I bought an Abaya for GH₵350. This year, it’s GH₵650. I had no choice because it’s a special occasion and I want to feel good. Still, I hope the dresses are made affordable so others can also celebrate in style.”
At Baby Last Closet in Sakasaka, another fashion outlet, prices for women’s outfits range from GH₵350 to GH₵1,300, while men’s attire goes from GH₵250 to GH₵1,000.
“Some customers complain about the cost, but because it’s Ramadan, many still go ahead and buy,” said the shop owner.
Similarly, Mandy’s Haven at Zogbeli sells exclusively for Eid celebrations, dealing in high-end Abayas, Jalabiyas, and Kaftan materials. Prices there reflect quality and origin, with female attire ranging from GH₵450 to GH₵5,000, and kaftan fabric sold at GH₵200 per yard.
For many, including resident Iddrisu Suale, the holy month remains a sacred period despite the economic pressures. “Things are expensive this year, but I still want to make the day special for my children. I plan to get them Abayas and Jalabiyas from Egypt,” he indicated.
Despite the bustling nature of preparation and the high cost of goods, resident expressed optimism of having a good time in observing the deep spiritual significance of the occasion.
Story & photos by Paul Dery
