President John Dramani Mahama, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, has commissioned 263 officer cadets into the Ghana Armed Forces at the graduation parade of the Ghana Military Academy.
The ceremony, held at Ranger Baba Square, Whistler Barracks, marked the completion of the Regular Career Course 64 and Short Service Commission/Special Duties Course 62.
President Mahama used the occasion to outline government’s resolve to strengthening the military and addressing the country’s security challenges.
Before the ceremony commenced, the President paused to honor colleagues who perished in a helicopter crash ahead of the previous graduation parade, including a former Minister of Defence.
He offered prayers for their peaceful repose.
Commending the graduating cadets, President Mahama praised the discipline, professionalism and precision on display throughout the morning parade.
He credited the military high command, the Commandant and the entire training staff for their role in transforming the cadets from civilians into officers ready to serve the Republic.
“Leadership is not about rank or privilege, it is about responsibility, service and sacrifice,” the President told the newly commissioned officers. He urged them to lead with integrity, show courage in adversity and honor the traditions of the Ghana Armed Forces.
President Mahama also used the occasion to address the nation’s security landscape, warning that violent extremism, terrorism and transnational crime continue to pose serious threats, particularly along Ghana’s northern border.
He called on all Ghanaians to remain vigilant and security-conscious, saying that protecting the nation’s peace is a shared national duty.
On the fight against illegal mining, the President announced that forests and river bodies have been declared security zones, permanent military bases have been established in affected areas, and offenders are being prosecuted. He noted that rivers such as Praha, Cobra and Orphan are gradually recovering, and promised that illegal mining will continue to be confronted without fear or favor.
The President also outlined plans to invest in the Armed Forces, including the acquisition of new helicopters, the recruitment of approximately 12,000 new personnel over the next three years, and the delivery of 10,000 housing units for service members over five years. He noted that construction of the first 2,000 units has already begun.
Addressing concerns raised by retiring officers over unpaid gratuities linked to CI-129, President Mahama assured the affected servicemembers that the government will not shirk its responsibility and will work toward an acceptable resolution, despite some having already opted for legal action.
The President closed by reaffirming Ghana’s proud tradition in international peacekeeping, noting that the country’s men and women currently serve across 15 missions worldwide under the United Nations, the African Union and ECOWAS. He extended his warmest congratulations to all graduating cadets and award winners on behalf of the government and people of Ghana
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
