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Africa needs strategic investment in modern defence technology — CSS CEO Kwaku Ayeh

Africa needs strategic investment in modern defence technology — CSS CEO Kwaku Ayeh

By: Emmanuel Bekoe

The Chief Executive Officer of Concept Security Systems (CSS), a major defence player in Africa, Kwaku Ayeh, has urged African governments to prioritise investment in modern defence technology to tackle emerging security threats.

Mr Ayeh said the changing global security environment requires African nations to adopt intelligence-driven security approaches supported by modern surveillance systems, secure communication networks and integrated defence technologies.

"In this growing era of global insecurity, it is prudent for Africa to protect our borders and other strategic resources," Mr Ayeh said. "Governments across the continent must invest in modern and sophisticated defence and law enforcement equipment to strengthen national security and improve operational effectiveness."

His comments follow Ghana’s advancement into the advisory phase of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) Assess, Advise, Advocate and Integrate (A3I) programme, after completing the initiative’s initial assessment stage.

The development was announced by Brigadier General Paul G. Filcek, Director of Logistics at U.S. Africa Command, during a digital press briefing on the sidelines of the 2026 Africa Logistics and Communications Symposium (ALCS26) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Brig. Gen. Filcek described Ghana as "a robust partner to USAFRICOM" and said the new phase would deepen cooperation in logistics, air mobility and defence capability development.

He explained that effective logistics and communications remain critical to modern defence operations, particularly in addressing transnational threats such as human trafficking, illegal narcotics trafficking and organised crime. He added that investments in logistics systems, communications infrastructure and regional interoperability would improve operational readiness while supporting wider economic development.

Reacting to Ghana’s progress under the A3I programme, Mr Ayeh said the development highlights the increasing importance of technology-driven security solutions in protecting national interests.

He urged governments to complement international defence partnerships with sustained investment in surveillance technology, border management systems, artificial intelligence, secure communications and specialised training for defence and law enforcement personnel.

Mr Ayeh said CSS is committed to supporting Africa’s security transformation by becoming West Africa’s foremost provider of intelligence, defence and security solutions. He explained that the company collaborates with private organisations, commercial institutions and government agencies to provide integrated and innovative security solutions tailored to specific operational needs.

Through partnerships with leading global security and defence firms, CSS provides advanced technologies, specialised equipment and customised training programmes aimed at strengthening the capabilities of defence, intelligence and law enforcement institutions across the region.

"Strong security systems are the foundation for sustainable economic growth, investor confidence and regional integration," Mr Ayeh said. "Africa must embrace innovation and invest strategically in technologies that protect lives, infrastructure and national assets while preparing for future security challenges."

ALCS26 brought together representatives from more than 40 African countries and 27 private-sector companies to discuss defence logistics, communications and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. The symposium highlighted innovation, interoperability and strategic partnerships as key factors in strengthening Africa’s long-term security and development.

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