Kofi Ampeah Woode
The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) – Major General (Maj Gen) Bismarck Kwasi Onwona has commissioned a newly constructed 20-unit accommodation, and a Parade Square, for personnel at Idris Barracks, Kumasi.
As part of his familiarization tour to 4 Garrison on Tuesday 19 March 2024, the COAS commissioned the projects, which were christened the AGYEMANG-PREMPEH BLOCK – which has each unit containing 1-bedroom, a living area and kitchen, and a toilet and bath ensuite, and the AGYEMANG-PREMPEH SQUARE.
In his address during the commissioning, the COAS commended the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Central Command (C/COMD) – Brigadier General (Brig Gen) Charles Agyemang-Prempeh, for making the needs of his soldiers his topmost priority, indicating that accommodation is one major challenge that confronts personnel, despite government’s efforts through the Barracks Regeneration Program, across all Garrisons of GAF.
He stated that the recent expansion drive of the Ghana Army, and consequently, the increasing number of Soldiers passing out from the training schools, has exacerbated the accommodation challenge.
General Onwona expressed optimism in helping to resolve personnel accommodation challenges, noting that quite a number of personnel are not properly and decently accommodated, whiles some are housed in wooden structures, which are prone to fire outbreaks, reptiles and rodent infestations, along with other possible associated health risks.
Maj Gen BK Onwona applauded personnel for their commitment, dedication and sacrifices they make on a daily basis to ensure peace and security in the country as a whole, but stressed the need to perform their duties professionally at Ghana’s upcoming General Elections in December 2024.
The COAS also reminded personnel to be continually alert at the looming threat of terrorism in the sub-region, and charged them to train and be adequately prepared to respond appropriately, in a timely manner to any imminent attack, should the need be.
Brig Gen C Agyemang-Prempeh, who has been appointed Commandant, Ghana Military Academy, in his remarks, thanked the Military High Command for giving him the opportunity to serve as the GOC C/COMD, and pledged his unflinching support, dedication and commitment to the Ghana Army.
The GOC expressed his gratitude to some individuals for their immense contribution towards the completion of projects during his tenure, acknowledging that the realization of the projects was as a result of teamwork, determination and commitment to serve, and that the 20-unit building and the square, testifies of the resolve to contribute towards the well-being of soldiers.
Credit: GHANA ARMY PR
