The Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament has expressed concern about the recent issuance of a Level 2 Travel Advisory on Ghana by the United States of America (USA),
The Caucus, in a statement issued Tuesday, April 29, 2025, described the development as “a serious indictment of Ghana’s longstanding reputation as one of Africa’s safest, most stable, and well-governed nations.”
The US government in its latest advisory urged citizens to “exercise increased caution” when in or traveling to Ghana, due to rising incidents of violent crimes, weak enforcement of laws, and underreporting of serious offences such as sexual assault.
The Travel Advisory, according to the statement signed by the Deputy Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo Adjei Ayeh, “also includes Indicators for widespread violence and/or organized crimes (C), political and/or civil unrest (U), and other risks (O).”
He noted that: “Ghana, the beacon of democracy in Africa, has long enjoyed commendable international recognition for security, democratic stability, and good governance.”
“Unfortunately, postelections violence perpetrated by known political activists, which have gone unpunished, has contributed to this damning Advisory being issued on Ghana, and fast eroding Ghana’s enviable reputation among the community of nations.
“We are compelled to point out that this decline is not coincidental. It is symptomatic of the Government’s alarming failure to address growing insecurity, the breakdown of law
enforcement, and a culture of impunity,” the release stated.
The Minority in the release blamed the government for its “scandalous silence and inaction regarding recent high-profile security matters, including allegations of drug trafficking, money laundering, and illicit financial flows,” which it claims “have tainted Ghana’s international financial reputation.”
“Additionally, the recent wave of violence in Bawku, including killings, indiscriminate shootings, and destruction of property, has further dented Ghana’s international image.
Indeed, the Travel Advisory places these areas at Level 3 risk, just below countries in the Sahel such as Burkina Faso and Mali, which are placed in Level.
“The Government’s inability to manage the Bawku conflict has not only endangered lives but has also raised serious security concerns. It is not far-fetched to conclude that such persistent unrest, coupled with the government’s failure to guarantee law and order, as well as recent engagements with high-risk countries in the Sahel, have influenced international partners like the United States to reassess Ghana’s safety profile, leading to the issuance of the travel advisory.
“Today, Ghana’s name, once synonymous with democracy and stability, is being dragged into disrepute. Our security situation has deteriorated to the point where travelers must now be warned of violent crimes, sexual assaults, and ineffective law enforcement.
“This is an utter betrayal of the Ghanaian people’s expectations and an embarrassment on the international stage.
“More importantly, this Advisory has serious implications for investment in our country, as investors would have to consider taking increased precautions anytime they travel to the country.”
He Caucus, therefore, calls on the Government “to act swiftly to restore Ghana’s sinking global image.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, Members of the Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament:
1. Condemn, in no uncertain terms, the Government’s negligence and poor handling of our national security and governance matters;
2. Demand that the Government acts swiftly to restore the rule of law by properly investigating and prosecuting all pending criminal cases without any political interference;
3. urge the President of the Republic to take urgent measures to rebuild the credibility of our security services and diplomatic image; and
4. Call on civil society, religious organizations, and the diplomatic community to join voices in holding the government accountable.
“Ghanaians deserve a government that upholds the rule of law, protects its citizens, and maintains our country’s rightful place as a beacon of peace and security on the African
continent.
“We remain committed to upholding the integrity of our nation and defending its interests, both at home and abroad,” it concluded.
