Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, His Excellency, Hailemariam Desalegn has described issues of security in the African Continent as worsening.
According to him, the trend is not only worsening but also a worry to the African continent.
Speaking at the 30th Afreximbank Annual Meeting held in Accra, he said "The general landscape of the security in Africa is worsening rather than improving"
He cited terrorism, violence extremism as well as radicalisation as a growing trend in Africa.
He also noted Burkina Faso, Benin among others could be impacted by terrorist actions.
"It is an increasing visibility everywhere. Even in the whole of Africa, Al-shabab is stilling increasing its impact"
He stressed that security in Africa still needs more attention.
His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn further noted that climate change in some parts of Africa tends to affect farmers.
"Demographic issues are also playing part. Africa is a young continent and the growth of young population is exponential happening"
"If we do not address this issue of demography properly, then I think that will also create some problems as well as riots"
"The manifestation of the root problems which have not been addressed"
He noted governance deficit as one of the biggest root problems which has not been addressed.
"In 2063, we want to see a peaceful and prosperous Africa"
"Africa should not always be seen as the junior partner in the global settings. Africa has to play its role at the global stage as well"
He charged African leaders to focus on itself ensure it achieves the Agenda 2063.
"We need to focus internally and solve our issues. Africa is rich with resources and we don't need to beg for financial assistance"
On his part, Senior Lecturer, Ghana Armed Forces Command snd Staff College, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Major General Dr. Emmanuel Kotia said "The issue of security is very important. Without security, no country can develop. When you don't develop, there is no way any country will provide for the living conditions of the people"
He noted that security, development and the living conditions of the people are not only interrelated but has an effect on the citizenry.
"The problem with Africa is that we look at issues that have struck us without envisaging on what is coming next and what is affecting other countries"
He charged African countries not to stand aloof and allow terrorism to take over the continent.
He added that some deprived communities in African countries must be looked at, stressing that terrorists use most of their recruits to cause problems.
"Most countries in Africa do not have National Security strategies and with those who even have, they cannot implement it to the latter. We do not have peace councils"
He praised Ghana for developing a national security strategy.
"If we envisage and look at that aspect, there are mechanism which we step up and deal with terrorism."
He charged after to come together and fight against terrorism.
H.E Hailemariam Desalegn and Major General Dr. Emmanuel Kotia shared their views on the topics; building prosperity for Africans; the challenges of Peace and Security.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith