Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa made the announcement during his historic visit to Kyiv — the first by a Ghanaian foreign minister since diplomatic relations were established.

“This is one of the issues we discussed… We are considering the possibility of developing a comprehensive operational defense plan,” Ablakwa stated. “Ghana and Ukraine do not have a defense plan. Therefore, we decided to start negotiations.”

Technical teams from both foreign ministries have already met to outline the agreement. Ablakwa expressed hope that Presidents Volodymyr Zelenskyy and John Dramani Mahama will meet during a state visit to sign the final deal.

Key Areas of Cooperation

•  Development of a joint operational defense plan

•  Supply of Ukrainian equipment for Ghana’s border monitoring, especially along the volatile Sahel region

•  Potential export of Ukrainian drones and heavy weaponry

•  Strengthened efforts to counter Russian recruitment of African citizens (over 1,780 from 36 countries already deceived into fighting in Ukraine)

Ghana has consistently voted in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty at the UN General Assembly.

What This Means for Ghanaians

The deal could significantly boost national security against jihadist threats spilling from the Sahel, improve military capabilities, and open new avenues for training and technology transfer. As Ghana prepares to chair the African Union in 2027, this positions the country as a stronger regional player.

Why Diaspora Should Pay Attention

For Americans and the large Ghanaian community in the US, this development highlights deepening Africa-Ukraine ties amid global security challenges. It aligns with broader Western efforts to counter Russian influence in Africa while offering opportunities for US-Ghana defense partnerships, intelligence sharing, and stability in West Africa. Stronger Ghanaian border security also supports regional counter-terrorism goals shared by the United States.

Advanced military drone technology similar to systems potentially involved in Ghana-Ukraine defense talks (Credit: Modern War Institute)
Advanced military drone technology similar to systems potentially involved in Ghana-Ukraine defense talks (Credit: Modern War Institute)

Negotiations are moving swiftly, with both sides optimistic about a swift conclusion. This is more than a bilateral pact — it’s a strategic step for Ghana’s security future and a new chapter in Africa-Europe relations.

Ukrainian drone operator showcasing next-generation unmanned systems (Credit: Atlantic Council)

What do you think? Should Ghana deepen defense ties with Ukraine? Share your views in the comments.