West Africa’s War on Drugs: Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo Take Center Stage

A Triple Threat in the Fight Against Illicit Activities

Accra, Lagos, Abidjan - As West Africa struggles to contain the spread of terrorism and organized crime, three countries - Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo - are emerging as key players in a complex web of illegal activities.

The Rise of Cannabis in Burkina Faso

Cannabis is widely available in Burkina Faso, particularly in Ouagadougou, Bobo Dioulasso, and the region of Boromo. While the drug is mainly consumed by unemployed youth and expats, the country is at risk of becoming a transit hub for cocaine trafficking through Sahelian routes and neighboring countries.

Terrorist Groups and Organized Crime

Terrorist groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State are active in Burkina Faso’s northern and eastern regions, with attacks occurring in Ouagadougou. These groups have been involved in organized crime, including:

• Smuggling of counterfeit cigarettes and pharmaceutical drugs
• Illegal gold mining

Local Criminal Networks and Corruption

The influence of local criminal networks has spread to include:

• Money laundering
• Narcotics trafficking
• Contraband sales

Many state actors are involved in corruption and embezzlement, while security forces and government elites are believed to facilitate drug and contraband trafficking.

Challenges Faced by the Government

The report highlights the challenges faced by Burkina Faso’s government in addressing organized crime, including:

• Limited capacity for effective enforcement
• Extrajudicial killings by law enforcement
• Corruption remains a significant problem

The Role of Civil Society and Economic Environment

Civil society plays a critical role in addressing organized crime, with numerous organizations working to prevent trafficking and promote victim participation in trials. However, the government acknowledges that:

• Victim services are lacking
• This often results in the re-trafficking of victims

The economic environment is also a major challenge, with poverty remaining high and many shortcomings in health, education, and gender equality still existing. The country’s informal economy and lack of transparency make it difficult to enforce anti-money laundering laws.

A Collaborative Effort for a Safer Future

As West Africa continues to grapple with the challenges of terrorism and organized crime, it is clear that Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo will play a key role in shaping the region’s response. With their unique experiences and perspectives, these countries can help drive forward a collaborative effort to combat illegal activities and build a safer, more prosperous future for all.