Lieutenant Colonel Rüger of the German Armed Forces has taken over command as Head of Mission of the German Armed Forces Technical Advisory Group (GAFTAG) deployed in Ghana. He took over command from Lieutenant Colonel André Heselschwerdt on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, at the 48 Engineers Regiment, Burma Camp.

Lieutenant Colonel Heselschwerdt, who served as Head of the Group, reflected on his tenure, highlighting key achievements and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead, as well as for the support he received from his team. His commitment to enhancing technical cooperation and fostering bilateral partnerships between Ghana and Germany was pivotal in advancing the mission’s objectives and contributing to global security.

During the ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel Rüger formally accepted command and committed to upholding the values and mission of GAFTAG. He emphasised the importance of collaboration and expressed appreciation for the foundation laid by his predecessor, as well as enthusiasm for his new role.

The outgoing Head of Mission, Lieutenant Colonel Heselschwerdt, was presented with citations and other gifts in recognition and appreciation of his successful tenure.

The transition marks a new chapter for GAFTAG and the Ghana Armed Forces, with a continued commitment to excellence in supporting the Ghana Armed Forces and their missions.

Present at the ceremony were the Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Joshua Lartei Mensah-Larkai, Commander Air Force Base Accra, Air Commodore Elvis King Arneson, Commander Tactical Air Command Bui, Air Commodore Kwabena Kissiedu Manukure Atiemo and other senior military officers.