The Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG) has launched the 2025 Poppy Appeal with a band concert held at the VAG Club House, North Ridge, Accra, on Friday 10 October 2025. This year’s commemoration marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War and serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of veterans who served their nation with honour.

Delivering the keynote address, the Deputy Minister for Defence, Honourable Brogya Genfi, emphasised the global significance of the Poppy as a symbol of sacrifice, service and remembrance. He noted that veterans across the world answered the call of duty, often at the peril of their lives and therefore deserve continued recognition and support.

Hon Genfi acknowledged the numerous challenges confronting veterans, including housing, healthcare and general welfare. He thus called on the public, corporate Ghana and other stakeholders to support the Poppy Appeal initiative to improve the wellbeing of veterans.

He disclosed that under the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces and President of the Republic, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s reset agenda, plans were underway to establish Veterans Referral Departments across all military hospitals to ensure veterans receive dedicated healthcare.

The Deputy Minister further revealed that social intervention initiatives, such as a Home Ownership Scheme and employment opportunities for veterans at the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited (DIHOC), were being implemented to address pressing needs.  He also urged intensified public education on the Poppy Appeal in schools and communities to deepen public understanding of its relevance.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of VAG, Brigadier General Seidu Adams (Rtd), expressed appreciation to the government, the Military High Command and all organisations that continue to support veterans. He indicated that VAG has rolled out several projects nationwide aimed at catering for veterans and widows and appealed for more assistance to sustain these initiatives.

As part of the fundraising, donations were made by the Ministry of Defence, the Military High Command and serving personnel in support of the 2025 Poppy Appeal launch.