The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has established an international desk dedicated to navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of West and Central Africa. This initiative aims to critically examine the influence wielded by foreign powers within the region, encompassing their impact on political dynamics, economic structures, and societal fabric. Furthermore, it underscores the imperative of unified African action in response to these external pressures. Launched during a two-day regional convening focused on foreign influence in West and Central Africa, the desk will function as a central hub for a diverse range of stakeholders including civil society organizations, media outlets, and policy actors. Through fostering cross-border collaborations, capacity-building initiatives, and targeted advocacy efforts, the desk aims to amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage and ensure its interests are effectively represented.
The establishment of this international desk marks a significant step towards comprehending and addressing the evolving geopolitical realities within the sub-region and beyond. Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, CDD-Ghana’s Director of Policy Engagement and Partnerships, emphasized the desk’s role in facilitating discussions on these shifting dynamics and formulating strategies that prioritize the well-being of African citizens. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that emerging global trends translate into tangible benefits for the people of West Africa and the broader continent. The desk is envisioned as a platform that empowers African actors to effectively engage with the complexities of international relations and safeguard their interests in a rapidly changing world.
Ambassador Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States, stressed the critical need for West African nations to assert their sovereignty in the face of escalating global competition for influence in the region. He underscored the importance of these nations developing the capacity to independently engage with multiple international partners without becoming beholden to any single foreign agenda. This assertion of sovereignty is crucial for ensuring that development and security priorities are driven by the needs and aspirations of West African citizens, rather than dictated by external forces. The ability to navigate a multipolar world without compromising national interests is paramount for sustainable development and stability.
Dr. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, identified terrorism as the most pressing threat facing the region. He emphasized the existential nature of this threat, noting that Al-Qaida and Islamic State affiliates in Africa are actively seeking to establish territorial control, operate illicit economies through activities such as illegal mining and taxation, maintain armed forces, and propagate their extremist ideology. Addressing this complex security challenge requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses not only military interventions but also socio-economic development initiatives to counter the root causes of extremism and address the underlying grievances that fuel these movements.
The international desk at CDD-Ghana will play a crucial role in informing policy and public discourse through data-driven research and analysis. This research will focus on foreign influence in the region, providing evidence-based insights to support African-led responses and strategies. By generating rigorous research and analysis, the desk aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of foreign involvement, including its implications for governance, security, and economic development. This research will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders working to promote good governance and democratic development in the region.
The Center’s proactive engagement on these issues is evidenced by its collaborations with global institutions, publication of policy briefs, support for student research, and the conduction of a baseline study on foreign activities in West Africa. These initiatives lay the groundwork for future engagements and underscore CDD-Ghana’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue and evidence-based policymaking. The international desk is poised to become a leading voice on the complexities of foreign influence in West and Central Africa, providing a platform for African perspectives to shape the narrative and contribute to solutions that prioritize African agency and ownership. This commitment to generating knowledge and fostering dialogue is essential for ensuring that African voices are heard and that African priorities are at the forefront of regional and international agendas.
