The United States and Germany have launched $40 million Coastal States Stability Mechanism (CSSM) initiative to bolster stability in northern Ghana and the coastal West African countries of Benin and Togo.
According to local media reports, the joint project works with local governments and communities to strengthen the state’s presence and foster a closer relationship between the authorities and citizens.
The reports added that the project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) would run till April 2026.
The reports explained that the CSSM is implemented in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in coordination with Ghana’s Ministry of National Security, local government institutions, and community partners.
“The project aims to enhance security, promote community cohesion, build the capacity and legitimacy of government institutions, and support social and economic development. It aligns with Ghana’s National Framework for the Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism and Terrorism, focusing on a community-oriented approach to mitigate the spread of Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs)
“The CSSM will also expand to other districts in Ghana’s Upper West and Upper East Regions,” the reports said.
Some of the equipment donated included solar streetlights, personal protective gear for the police, and medical equipment for Chereponi District Hospital.
Speaking at the launch of the project’ in Yendi, Northern Region, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations, Anne Witkowsky, and German Director General for Crisis Prevention, Deike Potzel, stressed the importance of reinforcing civilian security in areas vulnerable to violent extremism.
Ms. Witkowsky said that the project was part of a broader US strategy to prevent conflict and promote stability in coastal West Africa as well as enhancing social cohesion, improving government responsiveness and supporting security across the region.
In his remarks, the German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull, praised Ghana’s role as a democratic leader in the region and expressed optimism for free and fair elections in December.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Germany and the US to strengthen Ghana’s resilience against violent extremism and build a more secure and stable future.
GIK/APA