Story: F/Sgt Aidoo O

Pictures: Cpl Dodoo DN

A delegation of 42 staff and participants from the Côte d’Ivoire Armed Forces Command and Staff Course 33, led by Lieutenant Colonel Zian Aubin Martial paid a visit to the Air Force Headquarters (AFHQ) on Tuesday 30 June 2026, as part of a regional academic tour focused on security and counter-terrorism.

The study tour to Ghana is being undertaken under the theme, “Terrorism in the Sahel: Ghana’s Strategy for Securing its Borders.” The visit aimed at providing participants with first-hand insight into Ghana’s efforts to address emerging security threats and strengthen border protection in the face of growing terrorist activities within the sub-region.

Upon arrival at the AFHQ, the delegation was warmly received by the Acting Chief of the Air Staff, Air Commodore Nana Adu-Gyamfi and the Chief Staff Officer, Air Commodore Sophia Adzo Jiagge.

During an interaction with the delegation, Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi noted that the visit was both relevant and timely, considering the evolving security challenges confronting countries within the West African sub-region. He stated that the study tour offered participants a valuable opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of Ghana’s counter-terrorism strategies and an opportunity to share experiences from their respective operational environments.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration, mutual trust, technological advancement and intelligence sharing in the collective fight against terrorism. According to Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi programmes of this nature help to strengthen confidence among neighbouring countries and promote joint intelligence efforts which enables states to support one another in addressing common security threats.

As part of the visit, the delegation received a detailed presentation from the Deputy Director Counter Intelligence, Wing Commander AR Mustapha, on counter-terrorism measures and cross-border airspace security threats in Ghana. The presentation highlighted ongoing efforts by the security agencies, as well as the challenges associated with safeguarding the nation’s borders against emerging threats.

The briefing was followed by an interactive session during which participants engaged in discussions, asked questions and shared experiences from their various operational contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of regional security dynamics and the importance of collective action in combating terrorism.