The Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Administration at the Presidency, Honourable Nana Oye Bampoe Addo has commended the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for the progress made in women inclusivity in peace operations.

Honourable Oye Bampoe Addo highlighted GAF’s steady progress in fulfilling international and regional obligations, citing strides in gender-sensitive disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and the mainstreaming of gender perspectives in peace missions.

She made these remarks during the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 held at the Burma Hall on Wednesday 5 November 2025.

Honourable Bampoe Addo mentioned that that the journey towards women’s inclusion in peace and security began as a declaration of UNSCR 1325 and as such the progress made by GAF is admirable. She stated that women are not only victims of conflict but also critical agents of decision-making, conflict resolution, peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction.

Speaking on the theme, “1325@25 – Embracing the Future of Women, Peace and Security for a Gender-Responsive Ghana Armed Forces”, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, emphasised that the commemoration marks a significant milestone in the quest for gender equality within the security sector.

He said UNSCR 1325 established a global paradigm shift that recognised peace and security as more sustainable when women are actively involved in building and maintaining peace at all levels.

The CDS further noted that GAF has made meaningful progress through the development of a gender policy, the establishment of a gender office and the integration of gender mainstreaming across key sectors. “We have seen remarkable increases in women’s participation in peacekeeping and international assignments. Their professionalism and courage continue to strengthen our national capacity and global reputation,” he added.

The Gender Policy Advisor to the CDS, Group Captain Theodora Agornyo, said the celebration presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and chart a course for a more inclusive future. She highlighted that initiatives such as UNSCR 1325 help identify and remove barriers impeding women’s participation in peace processes.