By Esther BOAKYE
As Ghana approaches the final quarter of an election year, the political and social landscape becomes increasingly volatile. For businesses and homeowners, this period brings heightened risks, ranging from theft and vandalism to more severe security threats.
In such times, ensuring that your assets, property, and people are well-protected should be a top priority. The stakes are high, and proactive security measures can be the difference between safeguarding what you have built and suffering devastating losses.
For over 30 years, Ghana’s private security services industry has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges. However, in today’s complex environment, security is no longer just about keeping watch over property; it’s about having a comprehensive, dynamic system that anticipates threats and mitigates them before they become problems.
This article will explore why the final quarter of an election year requires businesses and homeowners to adopt a proactive security stance and how private security companies are crucial partners in protecting what you cannot afford to lose.
Why election years heighten security risks
Election years in Ghana are typically marked by intensified political campaigns, rallies, and public demonstrations. The energy and attention directed toward political activities often shift law enforcement resources, leaving businesses and homes more vulnerable. Criminal elements—be they organized groups or opportunistic individuals—tend to exploit these periods of unrest and distraction.
For businesses, the risks go beyond break-ins and theft. They include vandalism, attacks on key infrastructure, and disruptions to operations. For example, retail businesses with large foot traffic or those handling cash become prime targets. Manufacturing firms may experience sabotage or theft of critical equipment. The fallout from these incidents isn’t limited to financial losses; it can also damage reputations, relationships with customers, and long-term business prospects.
On the residential side, homes—especially those in affluent neighbourhoods—face increased threats of burglary and home invasion. Families and individuals become targets, particularly when the visibility of wealth or influence makes them more attractive to criminals. Election years, with their higher levels of public unrest, exacerbate these risks.
The crucial role of private security companies
Private Security companies in Ghana must evolve to provide far more than just static guards stationed at gates. Today, they must offer a blend of manpower and cutting-edge technology, creating security solutions that address a wide array of threats. For businesses and homeowners, engaging a reputable security firm during this critical period can provide unmatched peace of mind.
24/7 surveillance and monitoring: Security companies must now offer advanced surveillance solutions that include 24/7 remote monitoring. Using integrated camera systems and motion detectors, these services provide constant oversight of both business premises and homes. Alerts can be triggered instantly in the event of a breach or suspicious activity, ensuring that no moment is left unchecked.
Access control systems: For businesses, managing who enters and exits your premises is critical. Security companies must provide high-end access control systems, including biometric scanners, smart locks, and key card access, allowing businesses to restrict sensitive areas to authorized personnel only. For homeowners, similar systems can prevent unauthorized access to homes or gated communities.
Rapid response teams: Perhaps one of the most critical services offered by private security firms is the availability of highly trained, rapid-response teams. These teams are ready to be deployed at a moment’s notice, providing swift intervention in case of an attempted break-in or security threat. This rapid response capability is crucial in minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of both property and people.
Risk assessment and tailored solutions: Security firms must up their game to provide risk assessments that help businesses and homeowners identify their vulnerabilities. By assessing the unique risks to each client, security providers can recommend custom solutions, ranging from reinforced perimeter defences to increased guard patrols or upgrading security technology. The goal is to create a comprehensive security system that leaves no gaps.
The business case for private security: A strategic investment
Security should not be viewed as a cost but as a necessary investment in business continuity and personal safety. For companies, especially those handling valuable goods or operating in sectors with significant foot traffic, the risks during this period are too great to ignore.
Consider the losses associated with a single security breach—stolen inventory, damaged property, or even a temporary halt to operations. Such incidents can create ripple effects that damage your bottom line, delay production, or cause significant reputational harm.
For high-net-worth homeowners, the emotional and psychological cost of a home invasion or burglary can be equally devastating. Beyond the potential loss of valuables, the personal safety of loved ones is often at risk. Ensuring that your home is adequately protected with advanced security measures is not just about safeguarding property; it’s about protecting the sanctity of your home and your peace of mind.
In both business and residential contexts, the return on investment for security is clear. When you weigh the potential financial, reputational, and emotional toll of a security breach, the cost of a robust security solution pales in comparison.
Election-year trends: What to expect and how to prepare
As the year draws to a close, businesses and homeowners should anticipate certain trends and prepare accordingly. The most common threats during election periods include:
- Increased theft and burglary: Petty and organized crime tends to spike, with criminals targeting businesses and homes, particularly those that are perceived as vulnerable or wealthy.
- Vandalism and property damage: Political unrest can lead to incidents of vandalism, especially around business premises located in high-traffic or politically sensitive areas.
- Operational disruptions: Businesses may face interruptions due to protests, roadblocks, or strikes, affecting supply chains and day-to-day operations. Having contingency plans in place is essential.
- Personal safety threats: For individuals in prominent positions—whether business executives or Political figures—the risks extend to personal safety. Criminals may target high-profile individuals or their families for kidnappings, extortion, or home invasions, making personal security an essential consideration.
What businesses and homeowners must do now
With just months remaining in this election year, the window for taking proactive steps is narrowing. Waiting until an incident occurs is not a viable strategy. Instead, businesses and homeowners should take immediate action by following these key steps:
- Engage a professional security firm: Work with a security company that has a proven track record of handling high-risk environments. The best firms offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique needs, from physical security to on-demand patrols.
- Invest in robust technology: Security is more than just manpower. Surveillance cameras, access control systems, and intrusion alarms integrated with modern technology can offer real-time alerts and a significant layer of protection for both homes and businesses.
- Increase physical security presence: For high-risk areas, consider increasing the number of security personnel on-site. Visible security presence serves as a deterrent and can prevent incidents before they occur.
- Conduct regular security audits: Have your premises, whether a home or business, thoroughly assessed for vulnerabilities. A professional audit will reveal areas where your current security measures may be lacking, allowing you to make necessary upgrades.
- Emergency response plans: Make sure you have a clear, actionable plan in place for handling any security incidents. This includes quick communication channels with your security provider, as well as evacuation plans for both employees and household members in the event of a crisis.
Conclusion: Private security as a lifeline in uncertain times
As Ghana enters the critical final quarter of an election year, the risks to businesses and homes are not abstract — they are real and imminent. In such a volatile environment, security must be viewed as a fundamental priority, not an afterthought. The right security solutions offer more than just protection; they provide peace of mind, operational continuity, and an assurance that the assets, people, and properties you hold dear are secure.
For businesses, security is an investment in safeguarding not just tangible assets but also future revenues, brand reputation, and stakeholder trust. For homeowners, it’s about ensuring that your family and property remain safe in times of uncertainty.
In the face of heightened risks and unpredictability, the time to act is now. By partnering with the right professional security firm, you can ensure that your business or home is protected, no matter what challenges the election year may bring. In these uncertain times, security is not just a precaution — it’s a lifeline.
About the author
Esther Boakye has over 25 years’ experience in the private security services in Ghana. She has served in many capacities like head of Credit Control until her appointment as CEO of Westec Security Systems Ghana Limited. Since taking the helm, she has exhibited visionary leadership, steering the company through transformative growth and achievement.
Under her innovative stewardship, Westec has:
- Stabilized operations
- Fostered a motivated workforce
- Expanded market presence
- Enhanced operational efficiency
Mrs. Boakye’s dedication and collaborative leadership style have cultivated a culture of excellence, driving sustained success and a positive work environment.
