Accra – President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commended the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for their unwavering support and defense of the nation’s democracy. Speaking at the 2023 Graduation Parade of the Ghana Military Academy in Accra, the President acknowledged the military’s professional conduct, particularly in the context of increasing military interventions in other countries within sub-Saharan Africa.
According to Ghana News Agency, the GAF’s adherence to constitutional rule and focus on their core responsibilities, especially amid regional political instability, is notable. He recognized the challenges faced by the armed forces, including the adverse effects of wars and undemocratic changes in government. During the ceremony, a total of 292 officer cadets, including 217 males and 75 females, graduated from the Academy.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the government and people of Ghana’s recognition of the GAF’s efforts in maintaining domestic and international peace and security. He pointed out Ghana’s long-standing commitment to peacekeeping since 1960 under various international banners such as the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Currently, Ghana ranks as the ninth largest contributor of troops to UN peace support operations, with a significant presence in 15 peacekeeping missions and a total deployment of 2,500 military personnel.
The President also praised the GAF’s achievement in gender parity in peacekeeping deployments, underscoring that Ghana exceeds UN targets in the deployment of female personnel. The GAF has deployed 19 percent female personnel in peacekeeping missions, surpassing the UN’s target of nine percent, and 23.3 percent in staff officers and military observers’ roles, exceeding the UN’s target of 14.21 percent.
In conclusion, President Nana Akufo-Addo urged the newly graduated cadet officers to remain disciplined and committed to safeguarding the territorial integrity of Ghana. His remarks serve as an affirmation of the nation’s dedication to democratic governance and the pivotal role of the armed forces in maintaining peace and stability both at home and abroad.
