Interior Minister commends German Government for supporting Ghana’s border security

Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has lauded the German Government for its continuous support to Ghana’s security sector, particularly in strengthening border protection and migration management systems.

He made the remarks during a brief ceremony at the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) headquarters in Accra, where the German Embassy donated a 62-seater bus to the GIS to enhance operational mobility.

“We are very grateful to the German Government and the entire European Union for their longstanding partnership with Ghana. Your support continues to make a significant impact, especially in the protection of our borders,” Hon. Muntaka stated.

He emphasized that the bus donation, though symbolic, forms part of a broader and more critical cooperation between Germany and Ghana in areas of border security, arms control, and intelligence-sharing.

Hon. Muntaka particularly acknowledged the German Government’s earlier support in providing Ghana with a Weapon Detection Facility (WDF), which he said remains the most significant tool at the country’s disposal for detecting illegal arms at the ports.

“That system is the only major one we currently have, and it has been instrumental in helping us identify and stop the inflow of illegal arms,” he noted.

“We are committed to using this support effectively to minimize arms proliferation, especially with the increasing threats from the Sahel region.”

The Minister revealed that the government is undertaking reforms to improve manual inspection processes at border posts and is pushing for the acquisition of more advanced weapon detection systems.

“Our police, fire service, and other security agencies all need such tools. We know our resources are limited, but we are prioritizing where we can,” he said.

Hon. Muntaka also reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Germany and other EU member states, especially under the new administration.

“There is a lot of cooperation between us—beyond security, we also collaborate on business and development. I can assure you that this new government is determined to sustain and deepen those partnerships,” he added.

He concluded by assuring the German delegation that Ghana will remain a committed partner in promoting peace, security, and regional stability.

On his part, the German Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Daniel Krull, has reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering commitment to deepening cooperation with the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), describing the partnership as one grounded in continuity, trust, and mutual respect.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony of a 62-seater HR Skyline bus to the GIS on behalf of the German Government and the German Federal Police, Ambassador Krull said the donation was not a random act of diplomacy, but a result of a demand-driven process and consistent collaboration over the years.

“We don’t just offer what we think you need. We ask. And when the need for this bus was flagged by your officers, we began the process to deliver on that request. Today, I’m glad we’ve fulfilled our promise,” he said.

The Ambassador hailed the longstanding ties between the two institutions, noting that their success is anchored on two pillars: continuity and responsiveness.

He stressed that trust and partnership are not built overnight but are nurtured through years of consistent engagement and mutual delivery.

“Trust builds over time. This cooperation has grown because of the dedication of people like Mr. Hesse and his predecessors, who have worked continuously with the Ghana Immigration Service. And we are proud to see this collaboration maintained even through changes in political administration,” he noted.

Ambassador Krull further highlighted recent instances of high-level cooperation between Ghanaian and German immigration authorities, describing them as “high-value cases” that exemplify what both countries can achieve when working together.

“Ghana Immigration Service is far more than uniformed officers at the airport. You are the first line of defense against regional instability and irregular migration. We understand the strategic importance of GIS, and that’s why we remain committed to supporting you,” he stated.

He expressed appreciation for the presence of the Interior Minister, Hon. Mohamed Mugdaka Mubarak, at the event, noting that it was a strong sign of Ghana’s continued commitment to the partnership.

Ambassador Krull concluded by expressing optimism that the relationship between Germany and the Ghana Immigration Service will continue to yield impactful results for years to come.

Taking his turn, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of Germany for the continued collaboration and support.

He noted that the bus will play a crucial role in easing transportation challenges faced by the Service, especially for trainees and staff at the Immigration Academy and Training School at Assin Fosu.

“This generous donation is not only a testament to the strong partnership between our two nations, but also a reflection of the German Government's unwavering commitment to migration governance and border security in Ghana,” he stated.

Mr. Amadu highlighted previous support from the German Embassy, including the provision of operational vehicles, the establishment of a technical workshop in Tamale to enhance fleet maintenance, and the supply of a mobile workshop van to service operational vehicles in the northern regions.

“As we receive this 62-seater bus, we do so with a deep sense of appreciation and responsibility. It will significantly boost our capacity-building efforts, improve field operations, and ensure the efficient movement of personnel during training and deployments,” he added.

He further affirmed GIS’s dedication to utilizing the bus for its intended purpose, maintaining it well, and continuing to build a professional, well-equipped, and motivated service.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith