By Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has stated that the government has made significant progress in acquiring new helicopters to strengthen the Ghana Air Force and improve the rapid response to security threats across the country.
He made this known at the Ghana Military Academy graduation parade in Accra on Friday, January 30, 2026, where officer cadets were commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces.
The President said strengthening the operational readiness of the Armed Forces remains a top priority for his administration, noting that investment in modern equipment, advanced training and improved welfare is essential to effectively respond to terrorism, piracy and cross-border crime.
According to him, plans are also underway to receive new rotor blades to restore the MH-17 heavy-lift helicopters to service, which will boost air operations.
On infrastructure, President Mahama said the multi-purpose force complex he earlier promised has been included in the government’s Big Push Programme and will be delivered soon. He also announced the commencement of construction of 2,000 housing units for the Armed Forces, as part of a broader plan to build 10,000 units over the next five years.
The President disclosed that about 12,000 new personnel will be recruited nationwide over the next three years, supported by the establishment of forward operating bases in strategic border areas.
He assured retiring officers that the government would address challenges surrounding the payment of gratuities, stressing that the state would not abandon men and women who have served the nation faithfully.
President Mahama also spoke on illegal mining, describing Ghana’s natural resources as a sacred trust. He said the government’s anti-illegal mining strategy, including enforcement, education and security measures, is yielding results, with rivers such as the Pra and Ankobra gradually recovering.
Addressing the graduating officers, the President reminded them that leadership is about responsibility, service and sacrifice, urging them to serve Ghana with integrity, courage, humility and unwavering loyalty.
