President John Dramani Mahama has praised the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for their professionalism and sacrifice, describing them as a critical pillar of Ghana’s peace, stability and democratic resilience.
Speaking at this year’s West African Soldiers’ Social Activities (WASSA) held at the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters in Accra, the President said Ghana’s relative peace in a turbulent sub-region is largely due to the discipline and dedication of the men and women in uniform.
“In a sub-region facing complex and evolving security challenges, Ghana continues to be a beacon of stability and democratic resilience. This enviable position is attributable in no small measure to the professionalism, discipline and sacrifice of the men and women of the Ghana Armed Forces,” President Mahama stated.
The Commander-in-Chief noted that although Ghana’s security environment remains generally calm, isolated pockets of insecurity persist in areas including Bawku, Alavanyo, Nkonya, Nkwanta and Nantong.
He commended the Armed Forces for their conduct during security operations in these areas, particularly under Operation Gong-Gong and Operation Maidaburi.
“Your restraint, your discipline and adherence to the highest standards of military professionalism deserve the nation’s most profound admiration,” he said.
President Mahama assured personnel that government will continue to collaborate with security agencies, traditional leaders and local communities to secure lasting peace in all affected areas.
On international peacekeeping, the President acknowledged the challenges posed by global drawdowns in United Nations missions, revealing that several Ghanaian troops had been repatriated or stood down due to financial and logistical constraints within the UN system.
“I have directed that all affected personnel be prioritised for future peacekeeping deployments, while the military high command undertakes a strategic review to position the Ghana Armed Forces in a post-UN peacekeeping environment,” he announced.
The President also highlighted the role of the Armed Forces in supporting government’s fight against illegal small-scale mining, citing the training of river guards, the establishment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), and the creation of special courts to prosecute offenders.
“These measures underscore our collective determination to protect the environment and ensure that Ghana’s natural resources serve both present and future generations,” he said.
Touching on welfare, President Mahama announced that new salary scales for personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces will take effect in March, with arrears for January and February to be paid in the same month.
“I bring you tidings of great joy. Your new salary scales will start in March, and the arrears for January and February will also be paid in March,” he told an enthusiastic audience.
He further addressed outstanding gratuity arrears arising from the implementation of CI 129, which he said had accumulated to over GH¢1 billion, affecting about 3,000 retired personnel.
“I have asked the Minister for Finance to release payments for the 1995–1996 year groups at existing rates, while steps are taken to clear the outstanding arrears under CI 129,” the President stated.
On modernization and logistics, President Mahama disclosed that government is completing forward operating bases across the country, with two in the northern sector ready for commissioning and four more expected to be completed before the end of the year.
“These facilities will serve as the first line of defence against infiltration and extremist threats, while enhancing our rapid-response capabilities,” he explained.
He also announced plans to establish Ghana’s first Cyber and Electronic Warfare Centre at the Tamale Air Force Base, alongside the procurement of armoured personnel carriers, strategic drones, offshore patrol vessels for the Navy, and new helicopters for the Air Force.
The President paid tribute to fallen soldiers, observing a minute’s silence in honour of eight personnel who lost their lives during an anti-illegal mining operation, as well as others who have died in the line of duty.
“Some of our brave men and women have paid the ultimate price in service to our dear nation,” he said.
President Mahama also extended condolences to families of victims of the recent stampede at the El-Wak Stadium during a military recruitment exercise, announcing that a Board of Inquiry had been established to investigate the incident.
The event also saw the President honour outstanding personnel, including Leading Seaman Akuto Sarah Precious of the Ghana Navy, who was commended for completing a three-kilometre open-water swim to support children with special needs.
WASSA is an annual social and ceremonial event of the Ghana Armed Forces, bringing together serving and retired officers, defence civilian staff, and invited guests to celebrate service, sacrifice and military tradition.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
