President Mahama sounds alarm over drones, digital warfare in Africa

President John Dramani Mahama has warned that the growing availability of commercial drones and the use of digital platforms by armed groups are changing the nature of conflicts in Africa.

He said non-state armed groups and extremist organisations were increasingly exploiting inexpensive technology to conduct attacks, spread disinformation and recruit young people.

Presenting the 2026 Tana State of Peace and Security in Africa Report, President Mahama identified the use of commercial drones as an emerging security concern, citing Sudan as an example of the devastating consequences of their deployment.

He also raised concerns about extremist groups using platforms such as TikTok, WhatsApp and Telegram to reach vulnerable young people and influence public opinion.

President Mahama said African governments and regional institutions needed to adapt their security responses to the speed of digital communication.

He criticised the slow pace of institutional responses to online threats, arguing that conventional bureaucratic processes were inadequate for dealing with rapidly evolving digital security challenges.

He called for stronger digital security capabilities and more effective responses to disinformation, online radicalisation and technology-enabled violence.

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The Ghana Broadcasting Corporation is a giant electronic media (Radio and Television) organization tasked with a mission to lead the broadcasting industry through quality programming, which promotes the development and cultural aspirations of Ghana as well as undertaking viable commercial activities