The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) formally inducted its newly appointed service chiefs on Sunday, marking a significant transition in the country’s military leadership.
The ceremony, held at the Garrison Church of Pentecost in Burma Camp, saw the swearing-in of five senior officers appointed earlier this year by President John Dramani Mahama to lead the Military High Command.
The new leadership includes Lieutenant General William Agyapong as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu as Chief of the Army Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing as Chief of Naval Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong as Chief of Air Staff, and Air Vice Marshal Joshua Lartei Mensah-Larkai as Chief of Staff.
The ceremony was a solemn occasion, attended by dignitaries and military officers, where Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, offered words of wisdom to the new leaders. He emphasized the importance of integrity, humility, and teamwork in their new roles.
Apostle Nyamekye encouraged the newly appointed chiefs to see their positions as a rare privilege, urging them to value contributions from all ranks of the military. He highlighted the need for the leadership to remain open, collaborative, and focused on the development of their subordinates’ skills to strengthen the overall military capability.
In response, Lieutenant General Agyapong expressed his gratitude and commitment to the task ahead. He pledged to lead with integrity and work alongside his colleagues to elevate the standards of the GAF. His colleagues also echoed his sentiments, reaffirming their dedication to professionalism and service to the nation.
Major General Gbetanu, Chief of the Army Staff, highlighted the importance of loyalty and professionalism, stressing that these values will guide the army’s efforts to safeguard the country. Rear Admiral Bessing, the new Chief of Naval Staff, pledged to address logistical challenges and ensure the Navy continues to play a vital role in the country’s defense.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, also praised the new leadership, commending their unity and determination to confront modern security challenges. He expressed confidence that the new service chiefs would work collaboratively with regional partners to enhance national and regional security.
The induction ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Air Marshal Frederick Asare Bekoe (Rtd), former Chief of Air Staff, and Nii Odote Otintor II, Paramount Chief of Sempe, who joined the event to offer their support to the newly appointed leadership.
