The government has announced plans for a comprehensive retooling and modernisation of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) to enhance its operational effectiveness and readiness in response to evolving global and regional security challenges.
The Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, made the announcement at the 2025 Land Combat Fire Power Demonstration (LCFPD) held at the Battle Training Camp in Bundase on Friday, October 31, 2025.
The annual event, organised by the Southern Command for students of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) Senior Division Course 47, aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice in tactical operations while strengthening coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force.
This year’s exercise was led by the 1 Infantry Battalion with support from the 2 and 5 Infantry Battalions, 66 Artillery Regiment, 153 Armoured Regiment, 48 Engineer Regiment, 81 Signal Regiment, and the Ghana Army Special Operations Brigade. The Navy and Air Force also provided joint operational support.
The LCFPD attracted high-ranking military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong; Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu; General Officer Commanding Southern Command, Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil; General Officer Commanding Northern Command, Brigadier General Worlanyo Agbebo; Commandant of the GAFCSC, Brigadier General Cornelius Komla Lithur; Commandant of the Ghana Military Academy, Brigadier General Jackson Wonje; and the Executive Director of Veterans Administration Ghana, Brigadier General Seidu Adams (Rtd). Defence attachés and guests from partner countries were also in attendance, reflecting Ghana’s growing role in regional peace and security.
Mr Brogya Genfi said the modernisation drive, to be fully rolled out next year, represents one of the most ambitious reforms in the history of the GAF. The programme will focus on the establishment of new units, forward operating bases, and the upgrading of existing infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and response capacity.
“The Ghana Armed Forces shall undergo a retooling and modernisation drive, the likes of which have never been witnessed in our history,” he said, adding that the government would sustain the programme throughout President Mahama’s administration.
He noted that the process has already begun with the acquisition of modern communication systems and advanced technologies to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to personnel welfare, emphasising that the strength of the military lies not only in its weaponry but also in the morale and well-being of its officers and men.
“We are enhancing conditions of service, upgrading accommodation and training facilities, and expanding access to healthcare and family support systems,” he said.
He also highlighted the need to strengthen the intellectual and operational capacities of officers, commending the GAFCSC for maintaining its reputation as a centre of excellence in professional military education and fostering cooperation among African nations.
Mr Brogya Genfi observed that the participation of officers from six African countries in this year’s demonstration reflected Ghana’s commitment to regional peace, stability and security in line with the African Union’s vision for cohesive and operational standby forces.
He lauded the GAF for their professionalism and discipline, which continue to earn Ghana international recognition, particularly in peacekeeping operations. However, he cautioned personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct and respect for the rule of law, warning that any act that tarnishes the image of the Armed Forces would be dealt with firmly in line with military regulations and national laws.
This year’s Land Combat Fire Power Demonstration featured a multi-domain battle simulation designed to test the GAF’s ability to plan and execute complex joint operations under realistic battlefield conditions. The scenario involved defending Ghana’s eastern frontier through coordinated land, sea, air, cyber and space operations.
Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil, General Officer Commanding Southern Command, said the exercise validated the GAF’s preparedness to defend Ghana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while remaining agile and ready to address emerging regional security threats.
