Ghana Peace
A colourful send-off reception was held at Headquarters (HQ), Southern Command (S/COMD), to bid farewell to the Command Gender Policy Adviser – Colonel (Col) Samuel Effah Acheampong, who retires from active duty with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), after 34 years of dedicated service.
The event on Tuesday, 5 August 2025, was for the command to recognise and acknowledge the contributions of Col Acheampong to the progress of the Command, over the period of his deployment, and to also appreciate, congratulate, and wish him well in his endeavours, as he hangs up his uniform, and closes the chapter of his life, as an active-duty military Officer.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), S/COMD – Brigadier General (Brig Gen) Isaac Nicholas Paintsil, was full of praise for the retiring Senior Officer, for his unwavering commitment to duty, and exemplary leadership across various capacities in S/COMD and GAF, over the past 3 decades.
The GOC recounted fond memories he shares with Col Acheampong, whom he described as a long-time companion, both in civilian and military life, and emphasized his exceptional work ethic, sacrifice and dedicated service traits that had seen him excel in his military career.
General Paintsil then presented a citation of honour and gifts to Col Acheampong, wishing him well in his future endeavours, after which Commanding Officers of 1 and 5 Infantry Battalions, took turns to share felicitations with, and present parting gifts to the outgone Senior Officer.
In his farewell remarks, Col SE Acheampong thanked the GAF High Command, the GOC, Staff Officers, Men, Women and Defence Civilian Staff for the immense support and camaraderie shared over the long period of service that made and shaped his career.
He also showed immense appreciation to his wife – Mrs. Olivia Acheampong, and children – Sydney and Shnaelle-Queenie, for being a pillar of support and motivation, during work commitments, hoping to make amends during his retirement.
The event brought together senior officers, family members, and colleagues who have shared in Col Acheampong’s journey through the years.
Throughout his career, Col Acheampong held various Command, Staff and Administrative appointments that underscored his unwavering commitment to the service, earning the respect of his peers and subordinates alike.
Among them is the Administrative Officer at the Defence Industries Department at the General Headquarters, where he contributed to the smooth running of the Department in particular, and the General Headquarters in general.
He was also the Deputy Director, Land Operations, Department of Joint Operations, also at the General Headquarters, and later appointed Deputy Director, Army Intelligence, and Plans at the Army Headquarters, where he played a key role in shaping Land Operational Planning, and implementing same, in Army Units.
In recognition of his leadership and organisational skills, Col Acheampong was appointed Camp Commandant, General Headquarters, a position that required discipline, coordination, and the ability to manage personnel and materials.
His last appointment before retirement was Command Gender Advisor, HQ S/COMD, where he served with distinction, providing valuable insights and guidance that informed Command decisions, and shaped policy direction on gender issues across units under the Command.
Credit: PR DET S/COMD
