Defence Minister pledges support to address Armed Forces’ operational needs

The Minister for Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has pledged to work closely with the Military High Command to address the operational and logistical challenges facing the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

He said providing the military with the necessary resources and equipment was critical to sustaining operational readiness and ensuring that personnel effectively discharged their constitutional responsibilities.

Mr Adjei gave the assurance in Accra on Tuesday when the Military High Command, led by the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, briefed him on the state of the Armed Forces.

The Minister emphasised the need to strengthen the institutional capacity of the GAF and ensure that personnel were adequately equipped and motivated to protect the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He commended the CDS for his leadership and the initiatives being undertaken to improve the operational effectiveness and welfare of military personnel.

Mr Adjei also acknowledged ongoing efforts to modernise military infrastructure, address accommodation challenges and advance the transformation of the Armed Forces.

During the briefing, Lieutenant General Agyapong reaffirmed the GAF's commitment to defending the nation against external threats and fulfilling its constitutional mandate.

He outlined initiatives being pursued under his leadership, particularly in personnel welfare, infrastructure development and institutional capacity building.

Among them is the Burma Camp Redevelopment Project, which seeks to address accommodation challenges and provide military personnel with decent and modern living conditions.

The CDS also highlighted the establishment of the GAF Trust Fund to provide sustainable welfare support to serving personnel, veterans and their families.

On the military's contribution to national development, he cited its involvement in humanitarian operations, including relief efforts in flood-affected communities and assistance with the Accra-Kumasi right-of-way clearance exercise.

He said such interventions demonstrated the Armed Forces' commitment to supporting civil authorities and contributing to national development beyond its primary security responsibilities.

Lieutenant General Agyapong, however, appealed for sustained government support, particularly in the provision of additional air and maritime platforms and operational vehicles to improve the military's mobility, surveillance capabilities and overall operational effectiveness.

He expressed appreciation to the defence minister for the support extended to the Armed Forces and said continued collaboration was necessary to advance its development and operational capabilities.

The Minister reiterated his commitment to working with the Military High Command to address the needs of the Armed Forces and strengthen its capacity to protect the country.