Accra, Ghana – Islamist militants fighting in Burkina Faso are discreetly using northern Ghana as a logistical hub to sustain their insurgency, sources say, sparking concerns over the potential expansion of jihadist activities into West Africa’s coastal states. Ghanaian security officials and regional diplomats have confirmed that fighters are crossing the border from Burkina Faso to stock up on food, fuel, and explosives and receive medical treatment. This covert activity has so far shielded Ghana from the deadly attacks plaguing its neighbors.
Ghana shares a 600-kilometer border with Burkina Faso, which has seen large parts of its territory overrun by Islamist groups. A faction linked to al Qaeda, Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), has gained significant ground in Burkina Faso and has publicly expressed ambitions to push into Ghana, Togo, and Benin. Despite this, Ghana has so far avoided major jihadist attacks, unlike its neighbors.
Ghana’s ambassador to Burkina Faso, Boniface Gambila Adagbila, acknowledged that militants have been taking advantage of Ghana’s porous northern border but dismissed claims of any informal agreements with the insurgents. He said Ghana is collaborating with Burkina Faso to counter the militants and prevent them from establishing a deeper foothold.
According to a report from the Clingendael Institute, Ghana may have been spared from attacks due to militants avoiding any actions that could disturb supply lines or provoke Ghana’s stronger military forces. Joint security operations with neighboring countries have been part of Ghana’s strategy, though some high-ranking officials hinted at a more cautious approach to avoid sparking violence.
A senior Ghanaian security official, who requested anonymity, told Reuters that militants have been using Ghana as a base to launch attacks elsewhere and seek medical care. The official said that while some insurgents are discreetly monitored or used as informants, others have been arrested and handed over to Burkina Faso’s authorities.
Though Ghana has largely avoided large-scale violence, the country has not been immune to extremist activity. Over 40 incidents suspected of being linked to violent groups have occurred in Ghana since 2015, mostly involving logistics and recruitment rather than direct attacks. The Clingendael report suggests the militants are using Ghana to rest, gather supplies, and recruit fighters, potentially laying the groundwork for future operations in the region.
