UN Special Representative Concludes Working Visit to Ghana, Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace
Key Discussions on Peace and Security Held in Accra
Dakar, 17 April 2025 – Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), has concluded a two-day working visit to Accra, Ghana. The visit underscores the UN’s continued engagement in fostering peace and security across the region.
High-Level Meetings with Ghanaian Leadership
During his stay, Simão was received by Ghanaian President H.E. John Dramani Mahama. The discussions highlighted Ghana’s efforts in promoting locally-driven peacebuilding initiatives and its dedication to regional integration. The Special Representative also engaged with key officials, including:
- The Minister of Interior
- National Security Advisor and Coordinator
- Special Envoy for the Sahel
- Acting Executive Secretary of the Accra Initiative
- Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council
- West African Ambassadors
- United Nations Country Team
Strengthening Regional Security Mechanisms
Simão exchanged views with his counterparts on enhancing regional cooperation to tackle pressing security challenges, particularly terrorism. He emphasized the need for sustained collaboration and reiterated the UN’s commitment to bolstering its partnership with Ghana.
Ghana’s Leadership Role Commended
The Special Representative praised Ghana’s influential role in regional stability and reaffirmed UNOWAS’s dedication to supporting the country’s peace and development efforts. The visit reinforced the shared goal of fostering long-term security and prosperity in West Africa and the Sahel.