Accra: Mr. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, the Deputy Minister of the Interior, has called for renewed commitment to innovation and collaboration to strengthen Ghana’s security and safety systems. Ghana must adapt to the changing security environment by embracing research, digital innovation, and cross-sector partnerships that enhance her resilience and national preparedness, he said. Mr. Terlabi made the call whilst delivering the keynote address at the maiden Ghana Security and Safety Conference and Expo on Friday in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was themed ‘Innovating for Safety: Strengthening National Preparedness Against Emerging Threats’ and brought together government officials, academia, leaders of industry, and the security sector to deliberate on new approaches to safeguarding communities and promoting national stability. It was organized by Fihankra ComTech LLC, a Pan-African safety technology company, in collaboration with the University of Ghana, Devnest Systems, and other partners.
The Deputy Minister noted that Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and democratic nation in West Africa must be sustained through proactive investment in innovation and technology. He emphasized that a secure environment is crucial for national development, public confidence, economic growth, and social cohesion. He highlighted the urgency for innovative, collaborative, and forward-thinking approaches to safety and security, especially as modern threats evolve from traditional crimes to complex challenges like cyberattacks, climate-induced disasters, pandemics, and transnational terrorism.
Mr. Terlabi shared a personal anecdote to underscore the importance of public alertness, recounting a recent fraudulent call he received claiming his non-existent son had been in an accident. This, he warned, exemplified the sophistication of cyber and phone scams. He further emphasized three pillars critical to Ghana’s security future: technology, collaboration, and community empowerment.
He advocated for advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, drones, and data analytics, to transform national security systems. Additionally, he called for cross-sector collaboration, stressing that no single institution could tackle security challenges alone. Mr. Terlabi also urged for citizen engagement to build public trust and vigilance, encouraging participants to turn discussions into concrete actions.
Professor Felix Ankomah Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Development at the University of Ghana, chaired the event and highlighted its necessity in light of recent national incidents like industrial fires, road accidents, and cyber breaches. He emphasized the University’s commitment to ensuring academic research leads to real-world solutions.
Mr. Joseph Owiredu, CEO of Fihankra ComTech LLC, explained that the conference aimed to bridge the gap between government and the private sector in addressing safety and security challenges. He advocated for sustainable safety solutions through collaboration among innovators, policymakers, and industry players. Mr. Owiredu also announced plans to replicate the conference across other African countries to foster continental dialogue on safety, innovation, and preparedness.
The conference showcased safety technologies, products, and services developed by Ghanaian entrepreneurs and students, highlighting local capacity in addressing global threats.