John Dramani Mahama (right), Maria Da Conceição de Sousa Pilar (middle)
Source: Africa Publicity
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep concern over the rise of violent extremism in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region.
Speaking on Thursday, July 10, 2025, during a ceremony at the Jubilee House in Accra, where he received letters of credence from newly accredited ambassadors to Ghana, President Mahama emphasized the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups. Among the five ambassadors presenting their credentials was Maria Da Conceição de Sousa Pilar, the new Portuguese envoy. Others included representatives from Seychelles, Venezuela, Chad, and Gabon.
In his interaction with the Portuguese ambassador, President Mahama stated, “West Africa carries the burden of violent extremism, especially in the Sahel,” noting that Ghana is collaborating with several European Union countries to build capacity and address the security challenges in the region.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic engagement with the three Sahelian nations that recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“ECOWAS has a bit of an issue with three of the countries deciding to leave,” he said. “I’ve appointed a special envoy to continue the dialogue, with the hope of resolving the issues and breaking down the mistrust between us.”
Welcoming Ambassador de Sousa Pilar, President Mahama expressed surprise that she had arrived from Portugal’s mission in Abuja, given the long-standing historical ties between Ghana and Portugal.
“For all of us who attended school in Ghana, our history lessons taught us that the first Europeans to land on our shores were the Portuguese,” he said. “To this day, the most famous tourist landmark in Ghana is the Elmina Castle, which was built by the Portuguese several centuries ago. Our ties are historical.”
In response, Ambassador de Sousa Pilar acknowledged Ghana’s leadership in promoting peace and security in the region.
“I recognize the important role Ghana plays in regional stability and initiatives like the Accra Initiative for security,” she said. “We are committed to strengthening cooperation between our two countries, including encouraging Portuguese companies to invest in Ghana.”