“These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s military capabilities and enhancing national security.”
President Akufo-Addo, has earned the enviable position of being named the First Honorary Fellow of the National College of Defence Studies.
The College, which recently gained approval to upgrade to a university, is expressing gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for his instrumental role in establishing this institution dedicated to providing strategic military education in Ghana.
At the inaugural graduation ceremony of the National College of Defence Studies on Saturday, November 16, 2024, President Akufo-Addo reflected on the origins of Ghana’s military education. He noted that the vision for a dedicated Staff College emerged at independence in 1957, as Ghana sought to train its own officers to replace British personnel.
Despite this ambition, logistical challenges led Ghana to depend on training programs provided by Commonwealth and allied nations. It was not until 1976, with assistance from advisory teams from the UK and Canada, that the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) was established in Teshie, ushering in a new era of professional military education within the country.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted GAFCSC’s evolution into a globally recognized institution, excelling in leadership, governance, military strategy, crisis management, and international politics.
He emphasized that mid-career education at the College equips Captains and Majors with critical skills in leadership, ethical understanding, analysis, and communication. However, he noted that Ghana needed a higher-level institution to train leaders at the strategic level, preparing them for senior roles in national security and defence.
According to him, since 2017, the government has undertaken various interventions to enhance the military’s capabilities.
“These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s military capabilities and enhancing national security,” he stated.
President Akufo-Addo announced progress in enhancing Ghana’s defense capabilities, including the construction of 15 Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) along the northern borders under the Northern Border Project. These bases aim to strengthen border security and include key locations such as FOB Hamile, FOB Tumu, and a logistics hub in Tamale.
With regards to the Navy, he disclosed the acquisition of Offshore Patrol Vessels and Fast Patrol Boats to combat piracy and protect Ghana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). He also noted the commissioning of four fast patrol boats—VOLTA, PRA, ANKOBRA, and DENSU—to safeguard offshore facilities.
According to the President, the Air Force is set to receive advanced equipment, including six L-39 Ground Fighter Aircraft, maritime patrol aircraft, military helicopters, and reconnaissance light attack helicopters, to bolster Special Forces operations and overall military readiness.
Story: Janet Ayethe
