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Bundase Training Camp, Ghana. (April 19, 2024) American forces joined the Ghana Armed Forces in anti-terrorism exercises this week in this West African nation. In this photo by Technical Sergeant Christopher Dyer, U.S. Special Operations Command Africa and Ghanian troops practice calling in close air support involving two U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers during Flintlock 24 exercises held here. The largest annual Special Operations Africa exercise, Flintlock 24 included approximately 1,300 servicemembers from thirty participating nations.

Ghana and the United States have long joined forces to combat terrorism and piracy in this coastal country of thirty-two million. Ghana stands out for its record of stability and peaceful elections and as a long-term partner in the war against terrorism. Ghana abuts the Gulf of Guinea, the scene of much mayhem in recent years, off the African coast. The region is beset by traditional piracy, the seizing of vessels and cargo followed by ransom demands. Besides piracy, notable crimes in the Gulf of Guinea are illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and stealing oil.

Confronting these threats, with U.S. help, is the Ghanian Armed Forces which consists of an infantry regiment, an airborne force, and a group of specially trained commandos. U.S. forces have historically partnered with Ghana through multiple military and civil affairs exchanges like Flintlock 24 to strengthen African capabilities to police the Gulf.

This cooperation is even more important due to democratic backsliding elsewhere in Africa and the growing threat of extremism on the continent.