ICMPD Ghana

11/04/2025

10/03/2025

06/01/2025

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐁𝐒 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩

𝑨 𝑷𝒊𝒗𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝑩𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝑾𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂
The successful conclusion of the Strengthening Border Security (SBS) project in Ghana marks a defining moment in national and regional border management and security. Since its inception, this project has significantly advanced Ghana’s border management capabilities, contributing to enhanced security in Ghana and the West Africa region. Funded by the European Union Emergency Trust Fund for Africa and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), in partnership with the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), the project has demonstrated the transformative power of strategic capacity development and collaboration in addressing complex security challenges.
Strategic Achievements and National Impact
The SBS project supported border security agencies in combatting critical cross-border crimes, including human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and terrorism. Its comprehensive approach featured innovative measures such as the development and implementation of the Joint Mobile Teams (JMT) concept and strengthened crisis preparedness through development of national Contingency Plans. These initiatives brought together security and non-security agencies to address and mitigate border threats effectively.
Capacity building was a cornerstone of the project. Frontline security officers received specialized training on document verification and fraud detection, intelligence gathering, countering human trafficking, smuggling and terrorism. Coupled with the technical equipment provided by the project, the trainings equipped personnel with the skills and expertise required to mitigate emerging threats and maintain robust border security. Additionally, the project addressed public perceptions through an Anti-Corruption Campaign, grounded in the successful development of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) Code of Conduct and reporting mechanism. The project also addressed institutional drivers around Human Resource management, supporting the development of job descriptions, performance appraisal, structured training curricula and training plans, as well as the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), aligned with international best practices, and tailored to Ghana’s unique context. The dissemination of these SOPs was achieved through practical workshops and stakeholder engagements at key border crossing points, ensuring widespread adoption and effective implementation.
Gender mainstreaming and protection of human rights was an integral part of the project. With dedicated support to the GIS Gender Mainstreaming Unit in organizing dedicated awareness activities and sensitisation on gender issues within the Service.

𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏: 𝑨 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆
To foster regional collaboration, the SBS project convened three regional technical meetings between Ghana and the neighbouring countries of Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Benin. This platform facilitated critical discussions on safeguarding borders, managing migrant flows, and combating cross-border crime. Dynamic exchanges among stakeholders emphasized sharing of experiences, lessons learnt, challenges and opportunities, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation.
The regional meetings laid the groundwork for sustained bilateral and multilateral cross-border collaboration, with participants committing to stronger partnerships in addressing irregular migration and combatting transnational crime.

𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒄𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝑽𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆
The SBS project’s legacy is a testament to its strategic impact. By fostering partnerships, strengthening operational frameworks, and investing in capacity development, the project has positioned Ghana as a formidable actor in border security within the region.
As the project transitions, the foundation it laid paves the way for the next phase. This next project will be expanded to encompass other countries along the Gulf of Guinea, guided by the insights and lessons learned from the SBS project. Regional collaboration and strategic investments will remain central, ensuring that the region continues to build resilience against cross-border threats and fostering sustainable security and development.

The conclusion of this phase of the SBS project is not an end but a strategic milestone that reinforces the imperative of investing in security and collaboration. The journey ahead holds immense promise for enhanced border management, regional stability, and the creation of a safer, more secure future in West Africa.
European Union in Ghana
Icmpd Ghana
Strengthening Border Security in Ghana
Ghana Immigration Service

09/11/2024

Project Update 📢: The Strengthening Border Security (SBS) Ghana project recently achieved a significant milestone in enhancing border security.

In partnership with the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), ICMPD Ghana organized a validation meeting in Accra this month to discuss the Joint Mobile Team (JMT) concept. The workshop brought together over 30 key stakeholders from key government institutions, as well as representatives from various border security and management agencies; such as the GIS, Ghana Revenue Authority - Customs Division, Ghana Police, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Narcotics Control Commission, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and National Integration and the Ghana Boundary Commission.

The validation exercise provided an interactive platform for participants to assess the draft JMT concept and SOPs, amend sections, and make recommendations to improve the final document.

The JMT concept and SOPs was developed by a Technical Working Group comprising of the GIS, GRA-Customs Division, Ghana Police Service and NIB and is designed to enhance inter-agency collaboration through coordinated joint patrols, information sharing, and effective responses to border security challenges. The SOP also highlights other important referral agencies for the JMT. It is essential for all agencies operating at the borders to contribute their insights and advise on their roles to ensure operationalization of the JMT concept.

Prior the validation workshop, ICMPD organized three simulation exercises at key border crossing points: Paga, Elubo, and Akanu, in the Northern, Western and Volta Regions, borders with Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire and Togo. These simulation exercises were used to introduce the JMT concept to border security personnel using real life scenarios to enhance their understanding of the concept and test its practical application. Additionally, it enabled on-the-ground personnel to assess the concept's relevance to their work and its practical feasibility.

The JMT concept is in line with Ghana's National Security Strategy, which advocates for a collective approach to tackling security challenges through the involvement of multiple agencies. This initiative builds upon existing agreements, such as the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ghana Revenue Authority - Customs Division, as well as the Memorandum of Agreement between security agencies on Integrated Border Management.

We are grateful to the European Union for its continuous support to the SBS project, as well as to all the stakeholders and border management agencies that contributed to the development and validation of the JMT concept.

The successful validation of the JMT concept and SOP establishes a foundation for implementing the Joint Mobile Teams Concept to enhance border security in Ghana.

hashtag ICMPDINWESTAFRICA
ICMPD Border Management and Security
ICMPD Ghana

24/10/2024

The 2nd Edition of the Abidjan Border Forum kicked off today at the magnificent “Parc d’exposition”. A véritable melting pot of migration stakeholders from different parts of the continent. If you are participating in the Forum, pass by the ICMPD stand to find out what we do.
This year's conversations are on the all important theme of “Green Borders: Between Shared Natural Resources and Security Challenges.” In view of the emerging trend of climate induced migration and conflict over natural resources.

20/10/2024

04/10/2024

📅 Save the Date!
Join us for the "Strengthening Regional Partnerships for Effective Border Management: Strategies, Lessons Learned, and Future Directions" workshop!
🗓️ Dates: November 13-15, 2024
📍 Venue: Accra, Ghana (TBC)
This dynamic 3-day event, organised by ICMPD in partnership with the Ghana Immigration Service, will bring together key stakeholders from across West Africa to discuss and collaborate on critical issues in border security, migration management, and regional cooperation.
The event will be organised in the framework of the Strengthening Border Security in Ghana (SBS) Project, funded by the EU through the Emergency Trust Fund for Africa (EUTF).
Don't miss this opportunity to shape the future of border management and regional cooperation. 🤝✨
For more information, reach out at [email protected]
Stay tuned for more details!

16/08/2024

The most important input in any project is the people who put in time, effort, sweat and sometimes even tears. The SMMIG closing event was a celebration of the people who made the project successful. We extend our sincere gratitude to all our partners and friends of ICMPD who joined us in celebrating the conclusion of this remarkable journey.

01/08/2024

In a memorable event that echoed with recognition and gratitude, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) marked the closing of the Strengthening Border and Migration Management in Ghana (SMMIG) project funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. The Dinner and Award night took place on July 30, 2024, at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel.
The evening was an extraordinary celebration of the project's impactful 6-year journey and achievements, highlighting evidence-based success stories from the implementing organisation – ICMPD, and the beneficiary institution – Ghana Immigration Service (GIS). The atmosphere was filled with appreciation and admiration for the tremendous efforts and dedication of the ICMPD Ghana team, the Embassy of Denmark in Ghana, and the GIS.
In addition to showcasing the ICMPD team’s effort in supporting the Government of Ghana (GoG) to enhance its institutional and operational capacities to manage irregular migration flows, the event honoured the tireless work of everyone involved and acknowledged the remarkable contributions of key individual, through an award ceremony. The lasting impact of this incredible partnership will be recognised for many years to come.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in this milestone achievement - the dedication and diligence shown throughout the SMMIG journey will pave a way for a better future in border and migration management.

02/07/2024

The importance of international exchanges cannot be overstated, in any area of work but especially when it comes to border management! Such exchanges underscore the value of global collaboration and knowledge sharing, which are essential for developing innovative solutions and enhancing the efficiency of border security operations.

In June 2024, ICMPD organised a study visit for ten officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to the Czech Republic. The visit provided an opportunity for structured exchanges between GIS and the Directorate of the Foreign Police Service of the Czech Republic, with particular focus on: new trends and techniques in cybercrime; ransomware attacks and defence options; risk analysis, document examination; cloud computing and data security; modern technologies and mobile border management solutions. The visit served as forum for cross-cultural experience sharing and learning on different emerging trends and best practices in border management, and will contribute to strengthening cooperation between the two countries in different areas of mutual interest.
International exchanges like these are crucial for several reasons. They enable border management professionals to gain insights into how other countries tackle similar issues, fostering a deeper understanding of global migration patterns and security threats. These interactions also encourage the development of standardised procedures and protocols, which can enhance coordination and cooperation between countries.

This study visit was organised by ICMPD under the framework of the “Strengthening Border and Migration Management in Ghana” project (SMMIG), thanks to the funding from the Government of Denmark. The ultimate aim of the project is to support the Government of Ghana in strengthening their institutional and operational capacities to manage irregular migration flows, and one of the specific objectives of the project is to strengthen the capacity of the GIS in the area of cybersecurity and the use of modern technologies in border management.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Government of Denmark for their continued support and to our colleagues at the Directorate of the Foreign Police Service of the Czech Republic for their warm hospitality and insightful knowledge-sharing.

25/06/2024

Project Update📣: In March this year, our SMMIG colleagues kicked-off an intense and comprehensive process aimed at revising the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Prior to that, a year-long consultations and drafting process culminated in the finalisation and launch of the GIS Strategic Plan 2023 – 2029.
The GIS Strategic Plan 2023–2029 outlines the vision, mission, and strategic objectives of the service for the period of six years, providing a roadmap for improving border management, enhancing security, and facilitating legitimate travel and trade, while the revised SOPs are designed to standardise operations, improve efficiency, and ensure consistency in the application of procedures across all units of the GIS.
This week, the SMMIG team is conducting Sensitisation Workshops on the new GIS Strategic Plan and revised SOPs. These workshops are taking place simultaneously in four key locations across Ghana: Ho, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Accra, and aim to engage 300 GIS officers, as primary beneficiaries of the two documents.
The workshops are critical to ensure thorough review and understanding of the Strategic Plan and SOPs by GIS officers. In his opening remarks, the Comptroller General of Immigration (CGI) emphasised the importance of active participation and the need for the service to fully engage in the exercise to foster a sense of ownership of the Strategic Plan and SOPs. He encouraged officers to familiarise themselves with both documents and to collaborate in achieving the Service's mission and vision.
The Head of the ICMPD Ghana office, in her double capacity of project manager for the SMMIG project, explained that the goal of the sensitisation workshops is not only to inform officers about the strategic plan and SOPs but also to gather their inputs and feedback, as well as provide a platform for officers to ask questions and obtain clarifications on the content of the documents.
Note: The GIS Strategic Plan was successfully launched in September 2023, and the SOPs have been reviewed through multiple workshops under the Strengthening Border Migration Management in Ghana project (SMMIG), funded by the Danish government- Embassy of Denmark in Ghana, and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy (ICMPD) in Ghana in collaboration with the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

29/05/2024

🌧️ Even the rain couldn’t stop the Strengthening Border Security (SBS) project team and the dedicated group of officers from Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Ghana Revenue Authority – Customs Division (GRA-CD), Ghana Police Service (GPS), the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC). 🌧️

Following the theoretical inputs and practical classroom exercises, our committed team transitioned from the classroom to the field to simulate a challenging real-life scenario. This exercise involved responding to a complex cross-border crime case, including potential human trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering.

During the simulation, officers had to meticulously address the protection needs of women and children involved in the scenario. They ensured that each agency fulfilled its duties as outlined in the Joint Mobile Teams (JMT) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and in accordance with their institutional mandates.

Given that it is currently the rainy season in Ghana, the weather added an additional layer of complexity to the already demanding scenario. Despite the downpour, our team demonstrated resilience and adaptability, showcasing their commitment to the mission.

🌟 Mistakes were made, feedback was given, lessons were learned, and capacity was built. 🌟

The exercise provided invaluable insights and practical experience, highlighting areas for improvement and reinforcing the importance of inter-agency collaboration. Participating officers gained hands-on experience in handling real-world challenges, further enhancing their skills and readiness.
In light of all this, we can confidently say that this was a successful and impactful activity! The dedication and perseverance shown by all participants underscore our collective commitment to strengthening border security and protecting communities.
Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work and dedication. Together, we are making a significant difference!

Note: This event was organised in the framework of the Strengthening Border Security in Ghana (SBS) Project, implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development in partnership with the Ghana Immigration Service and with funding from the EU through the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa (EUTF).