Ghana’s northern regions face vulnerabilities to violent extremism, despite the country’s overall stability. While internal and external factors contribute to this risk, the rise of extremist groups in the Sahel, particularly in Burkina Faso, increases the threat. Burkina Faso, ranked 1st on the Global Terrorism Index in 2025, shares a border with Ghana, raising concerns about potential spillover of violence and extremist influence.

Youth in northern Ghana, particularly in underserved communities, are vulnerable to recruitment due to unemployment, lack of education, and feelings of marginalisation. Extremist narratives often target these frustrations, seeking to radicalise individuals online and offline. GCERF began investing in the country in 2024 and till date USD 3 million has been invested to address these drivers of violent extremism.