Ghana: Harris pledges millions to fight jihadists on Africa tour

US Vice-President Kamala Harris has announced $100m (£82m) to support the fight against Islamist militants in West Africa, while in Ghana at the start of her three-nation tour of Africa.

The coastal countries of Ghana, Benin, Ivory Coast and Togo are to benefit from the package.

The region has been facing security threats from the ever-advancing jihadists operating in the Sahel.

Vice-President Harries acknowledged Ghana’s leadership role on the continent and said that America was willing to invest more to promote economic growth.

She indicated that her visit to Ghana was not because of China’s influence in Africa but rather to strengthen bilateral ties with its partners.

Her visit comes at a time African countries are recovering from the global pandemic.

President Nana Akufo Addo had expressed concerns about the presence of Russian mercenaries in some West African countries, and the need for Africa to solve its own problems.

The country’s finance minister has just concluded talks with China on possible debt restructuring to qualify for an IMF programme.

The US has given indications it will support Ghana to overcome its economic challenges and will continue to push for debt reduction for countries in need, including Ghana.