The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, commissioned phase one of a 2,000-unit accommodation project and presented 50 vehicles to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) during the General Headquarters West African Soldiers’ Social Activity (WASSA) held on Friday, 23 January 2026 at Burma Camp.

The projects form part of the government’s effort to improve troop welfare, modernise barracks infrastructure and enhance the operational capacity and mobility of the Armed Forces.

In his welcome address, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, expressed gratitude to the President, the Acting Minister for Defence, and the Deputy Minister for Defence for their continued support, particularly in welfare and capacity building. He commended Officers, Soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff for their collective contributions to the successes of the GAF over the past year.

The CDS highlighted key achievements, including improved self-management of travel and tour arrangements, food production initiatives to reduce pressure on the government, the establishment of the GAF Trust Fund, and support for a special needs school for children of personnel. He also recognised the Army Signal Training School for producing a locally manufactured sky drone. Special promotions were awarded to Able Seaman Class I Akutor Precious and Lance Corporal Nartey Jerry for exceptional achievements.

In his opening remarks, the Acting Minister for Defence, Honourable Cassiel Ato Forson, praised the President’s leadership and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a modern, operationally ready Armed Forces, with particular focus on accommodation, healthcare, training, career progression, and retirees’ concerns.

He further encouraged personnel to uphold unity, discipline, and tradition, commending the military high command and all ranks for their continued service, professionalism, and dedication in safeguarding the peace and stability of the nation.

Addressing the gathering, the President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, described the West African Soldiers’ Social Activity as a symbol of unity and discipline within the GAF and reaffirmed the government's commitment to restoring peace in Bawku and other troubled areas.

The President also announced a salary increment effective March and disclosed plans to establish a Cyber and Electronic Warfare Centre in Tamale. He further announced plans to create two new military units in the Central and Oti regions, acquire additional military assets, and incorporate the 48 engineering units under the government’s “Big Push” agenda.

The event concluded with awards to outstanding personnel in the Chief of the Defence Staff essay competition, recognising excellence among officers, soldiers, and defence civilian staff.