The newly constituted 12-member board is chaired by the Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah. Its composition includes several key ministers whose portfolios are considered vital for comprehensive national security and effective crisis management. Among the members are the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak (MP); Minister for Defence, Hon. Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP); Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (MP); Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh (MP); Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (MP); Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George (MP); Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine (MP); and the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe (MP). Colonel Emmanuel Sampson, serving as the Coordinator of the National Centre for the Coordination of Early Warning and Response Mechanism, is also a member of the board.
Established under the National Centre for Coordination of Early Warning and Response Mechanism Act, 2021 (Act 1070), the Centre holds a critical mandate in the timely identification of potential and emerging crises within Ghana and across the wider West African subregion. A core function is to develop and implement enhanced crisis response mechanisms designed to bridge the interval between the detection of early warning signals and the deployment of prompt and effective interventions.
The Centre is specifically tasked with providing timely alerts regarding threats that could impact national and regional security, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding human security. This involves assessing a range of potential risks, including but not limited to, political instability, social unrest, environmental hazards, and health emergencies.
Collaboration forms a key part of the Centre's operational strategy. It is expected to work in close partnership with various government agencies, civil society organisations (CSOs), and other relevant stakeholders. This collaborative approach is intended to facilitate the development and implementation of robust, multi-hazard early warning systems, complemented by tailored response protocols designed to address the specific nature of identified threats.
Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama underscored the significance of the board's establishment. "This board represents a critical component of our national security architecture," President Mahama stated. He added that the board's work would be "pivotal in ensuring we are prepared and able to respond effectively to emerging threats, safeguarding the well-being of our citizens and contributing to regional stability." The establishment of the board is seen as a tangible step towards strengthening Ghana's capacity to anticipate and mitigate potential security challenges in a complex regional environment.
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