President John Dramani Mahama has assured officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) that government is taking concrete steps to address a housing deficit estimated at about 14,000 units within the military.

Speaking on Friday at the West African Soldiers’ Social Activity (WASSA) at Burma Camp in Accra, the president welcomed a strategic partnership between the Defence Industrial Holding Company and FT Global, which is projected to deliver 10,000 housing units over the next five years for military personnel.

Earlier in the day, President Mahama, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, commissioned the first phase of 2,000 housing units, reinforcing government’s commitment to improving the living conditions of service personnel and their families.

He described WASSA as more than a social gathering, noting that the annual event provides a valuable platform for engaging with service personnel, reviewing the past year and outlining the path ahead. According to him, WASSA symbolises unity, esprit de corps and the enduring values of discipline, loyalty and professionalism that define the Ghana Armed Forces.

Beyond housing, the president announced major welfare interventions for the military.

He disclosed that new salary scales for GAF personnel will take effect in March 2026, with arrears for January and February to be paid in the same month.

In addition, President Mahama revealed government’s support for a proposed mutual health fund for service personnel and their families, aimed at improving access to healthcare and strengthening financial security. He said the National Security Secretariat will provide seed funding for the welfare trust fund and acknowledged the contribution of Mr Kofi Appiah, Chief Executive Officer of All Day Ventures, towards the initiative.

The president reiterated government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of the armed forces, stressing that improved housing, healthcare and remuneration are critical to maintaining morale, professionalism and operational effectiveness.