The Minister for Defence,  Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces, while cautioning military personnel against engaging in unauthorised guard duties.

Dr. Boamah issued the warning during a working tour of military installations under the 1 Garrison in Tema. His visit covered key units including the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), the 1 Infantry Battalion (1BN), the 851 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment, the Base Ammunition Depot, and the Army Recruit Training School at Shai Hills.

The visit was part of a broader initiative to assess the operational readiness, infrastructure, logistics, and welfare concerns affecting military effectiveness.

Welcoming the Minister, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, Garrison Commander and Flag Officer Commanding the ENC, described the visit as a testament to the government's active interest in the operational and welfare needs of the Armed Forces. He expressed hope that it would translate into tangible improvements, particularly in naval infrastructure and maritime security along Ghana’s eastern coastline.

In his address to officers, Dr. Boamah stressed the importance of professionalism and accountability, warning that any personnel involved in unauthorised duties—or those who direct such actions—would face disciplinary consequences.

“The Ghana Armed Forces must maintain the highest standards of discipline. Unauthorised deployments undermine our credibility and will not be tolerated,” he stated.

He acknowledged the Navy’s critical role in securing Ghana’s maritime domain and vital national assets such as the Akosombo Dam, Adomi Bridge, and offshore oil installations. He noted that growing threats—including piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, oil theft, and terrorism—demand greater vigilance and investment in both coastal and inland security.

To enhance operational capacity and improve personnel welfare, Dr. Boamah announced a series of initiatives under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, including:

Expansion of the Armed Forces’ manpower;

Construction of 10,000 new housing units and completion of previously stalled accommodation projects to reduce the housing deficit of over 17,000 units;

Replacement of obsolete military vehicles to improve troop mobility.

The Minister also announced plans to introduce solar energy solutions alongside conventional generators to improve energy efficiency and surveillance operations.

On healthcare, he highlighted the newly launched Mahama Care Foundation, which will provide financial support for dialysis, emergency surgeries, and other critical medical needs for serving personnel and veterans.

Dr. Boamah concluded his visit by assuring troops that the government is fully committed to equipping the Armed Forces with the tools, resources, and support necessary to protect Ghana’s national interests.

“Our mission is clear—to build a professional, well-resourced, and combat-ready military force capable of addressing current and emerging threats to our nation,” he emphasised.