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Recognise, appreciate sacrifice of GAF, key reason for nation’s peace, stability —Defence Minister
The Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has called on Ghanaians to recognise and appreciate the sacrifices of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), emphasising that their dedication is the key reason for the nation’s peace and stability.
Dr Boamah made the remarks during his maiden interaction with members of the Defence Press Corps (DPC) in Accra on Monday.
The Defence Minister urged Ghanaians to support and respect the Armed Forces, highlighting their contributions beyond combat roles. He cited instances where military engineers have provided rapid solutions to infrastructure challenges, such as bridge construction for isolated communities.
“Our soldiers work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to ensure national security. Their role in disaster response, peacekeeping, and infrastructure development must be recognised and appreciated,” Dr Boamah added.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s resolve to complete all ongoing military infrastructure projects, some of which dates back to 2010.
He stressed the need to cultivate a culture of finishing existing projects before embarking on new ones, noting that proper financing should always be secured to prevent project abandonment.
“We must learn to complete projects as much as possible. When financing is unclear, projects remain unfinished, which should not be the case,” Dr Boamah stated.
He also mentioned innovative financing strategies, including leveraging climate funds for infrastructure projects that contribute to environmental sustainability, such as transitioning to energy-efficient lighting systems in military installations.
Addressing the housing deficit within the armed forces, Dr Boamah disclosed that the military requires about 17,000 additional housing units. He discussed various strategies, including potential public-private partnerships (PPPs) and mixed housing models, where some personnel may be deliberately integrated into civilian communities to enhance security while maintaining a strong presence in the barracks.
“There are advantages when security personnel live among civilians, as it deters crime. However, we must also maintain a significant standby force within the barracks to ensure rapid deployment when necessary,” he explained.
Dr Boamah expressed concern over the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey) on Ghana’s environment, particularly water bodies. He revealed that pollution levels in some areas have reached unprecedented levels, making water treatment extremely difficult.
“The Ghana Armed Forces is ready and willing to assist the government in addressing environmental challenges. We need a collective effort to combat the illegal mining menace,” he said.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu
The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Bank Group, has launched a Regional Health, Nutrition and Population Strategy to drive a new era of stronger, more resilient healthcare systems across West and Central Africa.
Unveiled under the theme “Fit to Prosper,” the initiative targets critical challenges including infectious diseases, malnutrition, and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, while positioning health as a key engine of economic growth.
At the launch, Minister for Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh called for urgent and coordinated action across the region, stressing that health challenges are interconnected and demand collective solutions.
He noted that no country can achieve meaningful development without a strong and reliable health system.
Mr.Akandoh highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to expand primary healthcare, reduce financial barriers, and strengthen infrastructure, workforce capacity, and disease prevention systems, measures aimed at improving access and building resilience against future shocks.
The President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, noted that health remains central to Ghana’s economic transformation agenda, stressing that investments in healthcare are not merely social spending but a critical foundation for productivity, innovation, and national prosperity.
Addressing participants on behalf of the President, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, highlighted key reforms including the Free Primary Health Care Initiative and ongoing efforts to strengthen the National Health Insurance Scheme.
He noted that these measures are aimed at expanding access, improving the quality of care, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of healthcare financing.
World Bank Division Director Robert R Taliercio commended Ghana’s leadership and longstanding partnership with the Bank, noting that the country’s progress in improving health outcomes demonstrates what sustained investment and strong policy direction can achieve.
The one-day event brought together Ministers of Health from across West and Central Africa, senior government officials, representatives of the World Bank Group, development partners, health experts, academics, civil society organisations, and stakeholders from the private health sector to deliberate on strategies for strengthening regional health systems and improving population wellbeing.
The Ghana Police Service has interdicted five police officers captured in viral videos engaging in conduct considered damaging to the image of the Service.
In a press release dated May 4, 2026, the Police said the officers have been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau for investigations in line with internal disciplinary procedures.
The affected officers are Chief Inspector Matthew Blay, Chief Inspector Francis Arthur and Inspector Eric Osei, all from the Osu Police Station in Accra, Sergeant Amos Dery of the National Protection Unit, and Inspector Joseph Okyere Asabre of the Obuasi Police District.
According to the Police Administration, the officers were seen in videos engaging in acts that “tend to put the name of the Service into disrepute.”
The Service assured the public that appropriate action would be taken after investigations are completed.
“The Ghana Police Service reiterates its commitment to professionalism, integrity and accountability,” the statement said.
By: Jacob Aggrey
