Kofi Ampeah Woode
Commodore (Cdre) Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo’s distinguished 38 years naval force career was finally anchored at the Western Naval Command (WNC) of the Ghana Navy (GN), as he handed over Command as Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) to Cdre Samuel Ayelazono, at a handing/taking over parade.
A farewell parade was mounted by 4 contingents forming a 48-man armed guard-of-honour at the Harry Seshie Drill Square, WNC, Sekondi, on Friday 9 May 2025.
In his farewell address, Cdre EA Kwafo (Rtd) called for fostered unity, mutual respect and a shared purpose, as a culture that would shape the Ghana Navy, with a strong conviction and the bold step to serve the Ghana, as practical guiding principles for naval forces.
He added that the acquisition of knowledge, training and preparation are the anchors of survival in the military career, and that there should be an all-inclusive leadership that lends ears to everyone, and uplifts every soul.
The FOC, WNC – Cdre S Ayelazono, commending his predecessor for his unmatched leadership and rich experience over the years, pledged to serve with an unwavering loyalty and selfless dedication to duty, and urged all personnel to work hard in order to achieve the mandate of WNC.
Giving a cue of times ahead, he stated of Ghana’s maritime domain, that it had remained calm in a region bedevilled by regional maritime security threats, and therefore, in collaboration with other maritime stakeholders, Command would make sure to maintain a safe maritime environment.
Cdre Ayelazono who was the FOC, Fleet at the Naval Base, Sekondi, before his appointment as the FOC, WNC, continued to state that a safe maritime environment would be achieved with priorities centred on operational readiness, discipline and respect for time tested traditions.
Dignitaries present included the former Chief Staff Officer, Naval Headquarters – Cdre Emmanuel Atiayao; FOC, Naval Logistics Command – Cdre Eric Osei; Director, Policy and Plans – Cdre Faustina Boakyewaa Anokye; FOC, Naval Training Command – Cdre James Agambire; Metropolitan Chief Executive, Sekondi-Takoradi – Mr Frederick Faidoo; representatives of Security Services, Senior Officers, Ratings and Defence Civilian Staff.
Credit: 2 GAR PR DET
