In a significant development aimed at bolstering Ghana's border security, the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany has donated a mobile workshop van and 3,000 flashlights to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).
This gesture underscores Germany’s commitment to supporting Ghana in maintaining stability and democracy in the region.
Ambassador Krull highlighted the critical role Ghana plays in defending democracy and stability in West Africa.
"Our chancellor, during his visit to Ghana last year, called the country a beacon of hope in a region where uncertainty and unpredictability are rising,” Ambasador Krull noted.
He emphasized the challenges faced by Ghana's security services, particularly with the volatile developments in neighboring countries.
The mobile maintenance van is expected to enhance the GIS's operational capabilities, particularly in the northern regions.
"Without mobility, security services are not very useful. Upgrading your capacity to maintain your vehicles in the north is a key element of this support," said Ambassador Krull.
The van will allow the GIS to conduct repairs and maintenance on-site, ensuring that their vehicles remain operational in critical areas.
In addition to the van, Germany also provided high-powered flashlights designed to aid in nightly security checks.
These tools will be crucial for the GIS, especially in conducting thorough inspections and ensuring safety during nocturnal operations.
Ambassador Krull expressed Germany’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ghana’s security forces.
“We are fully aware that all members of the security services in the country are facing severe challenges. Germany is supporting Ghana’s Armed Forces, police, and of course, the Ghana Immigration Service,” he said.
He reassured that Germany is ready to continue this cooperation and assistance, highlighting the importance of these efforts in the lead-up to the upcoming elections in Ghana.
The Ambassador acknowledged the significant changes in the security landscape over the past few years, with violent extremism at Ghana’s borders posing new challenges.
In response, Germany has focused on upgrading the presence and capabilities of Ghana's security forces in the northern part of the country.
This included commissioning a vehicle workshop in April to improve the maintenance and operational readiness of security vehicles.
“We are sure that this will not be the end of our cooperation. We are willing to look into future projects for cooperation, aiming to achieve tangible results in a timely manner,” he said.
He extended his best wishes to the GIS and their families, recognizing their excellent work in safeguarding democracy and security in Ghana and the region.
This donation reaffirms the strong partnership between Germany and Ghana, as both nations work together to address security challenges and promote stability in West Africa.
Expressing her delight at the ceremony, Deputy Minister Naana Eyiah Quansah highlighted the longstanding and robust relationship between Ghana and Germany.
"Ghana-German relations have been very strong and date back several years. It is not surprising that Germany has taken a close interest in our development, resulting in a strong partnership between the Ghana Immigration Service and the German Federal Police," she remarked.
Madam Quansah emphasized the importance of this donation, noting that the Government of Ghana views the commitment and support of Germany as crucial in managing border security—a common interest of both nations.
"We are extremely grateful to the German Federal Government for this generous donation, which will significantly improve the operational abilities of the Ghana Immigration Service," she stated.
Detailing the capabilities of the new equipment, the Deputy Minister explained that the mobile workshop van is a multi-purpose vehicle equipped with a comprehensive range of tools.
"The mobile workshop van is designed to perform repairs and maintenance on a variety of vehicles, from small operators to large vehicles, even in remote areas with limited access to traditional facilities. This is a precious asset to the Ghana Immigration Service," Madam Quansah noted.
The addition of 3,000 flashlights was also highlighted as a crucial enhancement for GIS officers, particularly those working in remote areas.
These tools will enable officers to conduct their duties more efficiently and effectively, improving overall border management.
The mobile workshop van and flashlights will also support training and capacity-building programs for the GIS transport units, ensuring that personnel are well-equipped to meet the challenges of vehicle repairs and maintenance in various operational contexts.
The Deputy Minister extended her profound gratitude to the German Federal Government, particularly the German Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Daniel Krull, and the German Police Liaison Officer, Mr. Christian Hesse, for their continuous support.
She also acknowledged the former German Police Liaison Officer, Mr. Dirk Katlun, for his efforts.
"The donation is evidence of the strong bilateral relations between our two nations and Germany’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development," Madam Quansah remarked.
She took the opportunity to commend the Comptroller-General of the GIS, Kwame Asuah Takyi, and the entire service for their dedication and hard work in ensuring that Ghana’s borders are secure and well-managed.
The Deputy Minister assured the German Federal Government that the donated resources would be put to good use.
"We will ensure proper maintenance and sustainability to maximize the benefits of this donation" she concluded.
"Our partnership with the German Federal Police has yielded mutual benefits, but I believe the GIS has benefitted the most. We are deeply grateful for the German Government's support in strengthening our capabilities for national security," Comptroller-General of GIS, Kwame Asuah Takyi said.
He emphasized the impact of the new equipment on the operational efficiency of the GIS, particularly during the crucial election year.
"The mobile workshop van and flashlights will significantly enhance our operational efficiency, enabling us to better serve our nation and protect our borders," he noted.
Takyi also acknowledged the shared responsibility in managing migration effectively, pointing out the global challenge it presents.
"Effective migration management is a global challenge, and we can achieve better results with the support of external stakeholders like the German Federal Government and the German Federal Police," he stated.
In his address, Takyi extended sincere appreciation to the German Government, particularly the Federal Police and the German Embassy in Ghana.
He urged the GIS officers to remain dedicated and hardworking, emphasizing that their efforts are crucial in delivering exceptional services and protecting the country's borders.
"We are not just transferring equipment; we are transferring knowledge, skills, and expertise to the mechanics of the Service. It is important that we empower our personnel to drive the paradigm shift and make a meaningful impact on border security," Mr. Takyi remarked.
He gave special acknowledgments to key figures who played pivotal roles in securing the equipment, including the German Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Daniel Krull, and the German Police Liaison Officer, Mr. Christian Hesse.
A special mention was also made of Mr. Dirk Katlun, the former German Police Liaison Officer, for his support during his tenure in Ghana.
Assuring the German Federal Government and the German Police, Mr. Takyi said, "This equipment will be put to good use for effective and efficient border management. We are indeed grateful to you."
The ceremony concluded with a commitment to continue the strong partnership between Ghana and Germany, ensuring that the GIS remains well-equipped to face the evolving challenges of border security.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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