The Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, has presented new Colours to the Western Naval Command and commissioned the Ghana Navy Ship (GNS) at Sekondi, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Ghana Navy.
“The Colours are not merely ceremonial,” he stressed. “They represent a solemn bond between the Republic and the Ghana Armed Forces and stand as one of the highest expressions of national trust.”
Speaking at the ceremony on Tuesday, the Deputy Minister described the ceremony as one of the highest forms of trust and recognition bestowed on a military formation hence the presentation of Colours reinforced the moral and constitutional foundations of military service.
He noted that for a coastal state like Ghana, national defence remains incomplete without a robust maritime security framework, particularly at a time when the growth of the blue economy presents significant opportunities alongside emerging security risks.
Mr. Genfi highlighted the importance of commissioning GNS, stating that the vessel would enhance maritime patrols, safeguard offshore resources, combat illicit maritime activities, and contribute to regional and international maritime security efforts.
He reminded naval personnel of their sacred duty to uphold the values and honour symbolised by the Colours and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing the necessary logistical, operational, and welfare support to enable the Navy to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, said the ceremony renewed the sacred pledge of the Western Naval Command to serve with professionalism, discipline, and selfless devotion.
He added that the commissioning of GNS would significantly boost the Navy’s operational capacity to respond to evolving and asymmetric maritime threats.
The Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command also highlighted the significance of the Colours, describing them as symbols of identity, unity, loyalty, and the mandate to protect Ghana’s maritime interests.
He noted that the addition of GNS marked a major enhancement of the Command’s patrol and surveillance capabilities.
The commissioning of GNS was formalised with the presentation of a Commissioning Warrant signed by the President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
