Accra: President John Dramani Mahama, the Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, has officially commenced the construction of 2,000 housing units for the Ghana Armed Forces. This marks the first phase of a larger project involving 10,000 housing units, a collaborative effort between the Defence Industrial Holding Company and FT Global, slated for completion over the next five years.
According to Ghana News Agency, the sod-cutting ceremony took place during the 2025 West African Soldiers' Social Activity (WASA) at the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters in Burma Camp, Accra. WASA serves as an annual gathering for security forces members to engage and connect outside of their demanding duties.
President Mahama highlighted the pressing accommodation deficit, with an estimated shortage of 14,000 housing units. He expressed the government's support for initiatives like the partnership with the Defence Industrial Holding Company and FT Global. "This project, together with the Barracks Regeneration Programme, reflects our commitment to improving living conditions for service personnel and their families," he stated.
Emphasizing his commitment to the Ghana Armed Forces, President Mahama urged officers, soldiers, and defense civilian staff to maintain professionalism and loyalty. He further revealed discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff to enhance the Armed Forces' internally generated funds through involvement in the Government's Big Push Infrastructure Development Projects.
The President announced plans to allocate imported drip equipment to the 48th Engineer Regiment, enabling their participation in road construction to generate revenue for the Armed Forces.
President Mahama also took the opportunity to commend the winners of the Chief of Defence Staff Prize essay competition and thanked the organizers, sponsors, and partners for the success of WASA 2025. He congratulated Corporal Jeremy Nii Lartey for his victory in the WBA Africa Super Lightweight category, acknowledging his contribution to the honor of the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation.
Additionally, the President recognized the achievements of Leading Seaman Akutor Sarah Precious of the Ghana Navy for her remarkable three-kilometer swim to raise awareness and funds for children with special needs, praising her courage and selflessness as exemplary of the Armed Forces' finest traditions.