The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have received a major boost in operational capability following the official handover of fourteen (14) Puma M36 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Armoured Personnel Carriers from the government and people of the United States of America.

The vehicles were handed over at a brief but symbolic ceremony held at Abuga Square, the Home of Armour, located at Gondar Barracks.

Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, attended the event and expressed profound appreciation for the support, describing the donation as a timely intervention to enhance national and regional security efforts.

“These highly capable vehicles will significantly improve the protection of our troops, ensure safer transportation in high-risk environments, and enhance our effectiveness in counter-terrorism, peace-keeping, and other security operations,” the Minister said.

The MRAP vehicles are designed to withstand improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and ambushes, making them ideal for a wide range of operations, including anti-terrorism missions, counter-insurgency efforts, peace enforcement, and internal security tasks such as combating illegal mining (galamsey) and disaster recovery.

Dr. Omane Boamah conveyed Ghana’s gratitude to the U.S. government through the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia Palmer, for the strategic support and continued partnership in defence cooperation.

A highlight of the ceremony was the participation of two Ghanaian female soldiers who confidently took the wheel of the powerful MRAP vehicles, demonstrating the increasing role of women in Ghana’s military operations.

The Defence Minister also commended the Military High Command, senior and junior officers, and soldiers for organising what he described as an “impressive and dignified ceremony.”

The donation is expected to further bolster the Ghana Armed Forces’ readiness and resilience in responding to evolving security threats and humanitarian challenges both domestically and across the sub-region.