In a bold and symbolic gesture, President John Dramani Mahama arrived at Teshie Camp on Friday clad in a crisp Ghana Navy ceremonial uniform to preside over the commissioning parade of officer cadets at the Ghana Military Academy.
The ceremony, rich in tradition and pageantry, marked a significant moment in the lives of the newly commissioned officers — and offered Mahama a platform to outline sweeping reforms and renewed commitments to the Ghana Armed Forces.
President Mahama, who served as Ghana’s Commander-in-Chief used the occasion to deliver a powerful message about military welfare, with particular emphasis on healthcare delivery for personnel and their families.
He reiterated his government’s pledge to complete the long-delayed 500-bed Kumasi Military Hospital located at Afari in the Central Command, a project that has been in various stages of construction for several years.
“Soldiers and civilian staff, your health is also a priority. We have a viable vision to upgrade your medical health facilities,” Mahama said to applause.
“We will therefore complete and equip the Kumasi Military Hospital at Afari in the Central Command. We have also budgeted for a military field hospital in Tamale. We want you and your families to have access to quality healthcare.”
This pledge is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing military infrastructure and addressing longstanding issues affecting service personnel.
The military hospital at Afari, originally commissioned during Mahama’s previous term, was envisioned as a strategic medical hub for the northern sector of Ghana, reducing the burden on civilian hospitals and serving as a referral center for the Armed Forces.
President John Mahama also promised improvements in the working and living conditions of both active and retired military staff.
He said the Ghana Economic Housing and Office Corporation (GEHOC) would be a key vehicle in providing sustainable financial solutions for the Ghana Armed Forces.
“Your sacrifices deserve recognition,” he stated firmly. “For our retired personnel who have sacrificed so much for our nation, we will ensure that your retirement benefits are paid promptly.”
Beyond infrastructure and welfare, the President used his speech to inspire the graduating officers, urging them to carry the torch of integrity, responsibility, and selfless leadership.
“You are no longer officer cadets — you are leaders now. The nation looks up to you with hope and expectation,” he said.
“Leadership is not about rank or privilege. It is about responsibility and service. I encourage you to be officers who inspire loyalty and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.”
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top military brass, government officials, diplomats, and the families of the newly commissioned officers.
The event featured a display of traditional military drills, inspections, and formal commissioning rites that transform cadets into full-fledged officers of the Ghana Armed Forces.
President Mahama’s appearance in naval uniform — a rare sight for a civilian leader — added an emotional and patriotic edge to the event, signaling both solidarity with the troops and a deep respect for the institution he once commanded.
-BY Issah Olegor
