The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced a major expansion and re-equipment programme for Ghana’s security agencies, including 50 anti-ballistic cabins, 15 Military Forward Operating Bases and hundreds of vehicles to strengthen national security.
Speaking at the 18th Annual Damba Festival of the Buipe Traditional Area, popularly known as BUDAFEST 2026, he said the measures formed part of President John Dramani Mahama’s efforts to protect Ghana’s borders and improve security agencies’ response to emerging threats.
Hon. Muntaka said 50 anti-ballistic cabins were being installed across northern Ghana, while 15 Military Forward Operating Bases were being established.
Government had also secured 50 armoured vehicles for the Ghana Police Service, 20 for the Ghana Immigration Service and more than 300 pickup trucks for various security agencies over the past year.
He said the equipment would enable security personnel to protect lives and property and respond more effectively to threats.
On fire safety, the Minister announced that the first batch of 40 brand-new fire tenders would arrive before the end of the year. He also assured residents that government would establish a dedicated fire station in Buipe and allocate a new tender to the area.
The announcement followed an appeal by the Paramount Chief of the Buipe Traditional Area, Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II, for improved fire and security infrastructure to support Buipe’s growing industrial and commercial activities.
On drug trafficking and substance abuse, Hon. Muntaka disclosed that 95 suspects were in custody undergoing prosecution. He also announced plans to establish a specialised court in Accra for narcotics-related cases to expedite prosecutions and prevent drug syndicates from using Ghana as a transit hub.
He urged communities to support proactive community policing and prevent illicit activities from taking root, citing community-driven security initiatives in Accra Zongo as an example of local participation in protecting young people and reducing crime.
The Minister commended the Chiefs and people of the Buipe Traditional Area for demonstrating peaceful coexistence. He said the cultural diversity showcased at BUDAFEST 2026, including Sisala and Boborbor dances alongside traditional performances, showed that peaceful coexistence was being put into practice.
Hon. Muntaka stressed that respecting people regardless of their ethnic, cultural or religious backgrounds was essential to sustaining peace and national development. He also praised Buipewura Jinapor II for his leadership and contribution to national stability, particularly as Vice President of the National House of Chiefs.
He noted Buipewura’s background as a former police officer and security professional provided valuable experience for addressing chieftaincy disputes and security challenges.
Hon. Muntaka urged residents to continue protecting peace in the traditional area and assured them that government would strengthen the country’s security institutions. He also announced a GH₵50,000 donation to the BUDAFEST 2026 Planning Committee.
Held under the theme, “Promoting Peaceful Coexistence as a Path to Sustainable Development,” the festival brought together traditional leaders, government officials, Members of Parliament, security agencies, religious leaders and residents to celebrate Buipe’s cultural heritage and discuss peace, security and development.
Source: nkilgifm.com
