The European Union is set to formalise a defence cooperation agreement with Ghana, marking the first time the bloc has entered into a security agreement with an African country.

The announcement was made by the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, during the union’s annual ambassadors’ conference on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The move comes as Brussels expands its security partnerships to countries including Australia and Iceland, in response to a volatile global geopolitical environment.

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According to Kallas, the initiative reflects a growing trend among nations seeking to strengthen their security frameworks beyond traditional alliances.

Kallas explained that the initiative reflects a growing trend among nations seeking to strengthen their security frameworks beyond traditional alliances.

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“Later this week, I will sign the tenth with Australia and subsequent ones with Iceland and Ghana in the coming days," she stated.

Focus on counter-terrorism.

The EU’s expanding defence diplomacy is being driven by the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme, a major financial initiative designed to boost defence spending among member states.

The programme offers up to €150 billion in long-term loans to help countries meet the two percent of GDP defence spending benchmark.

A test case for global influence

The upcoming signing ceremony with Ghana is widely viewed as a critical test of the EU’s ability to extend its security influence into the Global South and position itself as a viable strategic partner amid shifting global alliances.

If successful, the agreement could pave the way for deeper cooperation between the EU and African nations on security, stability, and defence innovation.

The partnership is also expected to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts and enhance regional stability, offering opportunities for joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses to security threats.

The partnership reinforces Ghana’s role as a key strategic partner for the EU in Africa, paving the way for future collaboration in defence procurement and broader security initiatives.

This historic agreement will position Ghana as both a pioneer in African defence cooperation and a trusted European partner.

JKB/VPO

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