The Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has promoted the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, to the rank of 4-Star General.
This landmark promotion, announced on Friday, January 3, 2025, during the President’s final State of the Nation Address to the 8th Parliament, marks the first time a CDS has attained this rank in Ghana’s history.
General Oppong-Peprah’s elevation makes him the third 4-Star General in the history of the GAF, following Generals Emmanuel Ankrah and Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, who held the rank while serving as Heads of State.
His promotion underscores the increasing responsibilities and expanding role of the Armed Forces as they confront modern security challenges.
President Akufo-Addo also promoted the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff to the ranks of Lieutenant General, Vice Admiral, and Air Marshal, respectively, further strengthening the GAF’s leadership structure.
Expansion and Modernization of the Armed Forces
The promotions coincide with the GAF’s comprehensive expansion and modernization agenda, initiated in 2015 and accelerated under President Akufo-Addo’s administration.
This initiative aims to address security threats, particularly along Ghana’s northern frontiers, while enhancing internal security capabilities.
The Army has established several new units, including the 15 Armoured Brigade, 17 Signal Brigade, Army Special Operations Brigade, and 14 Engineer Brigade.
Other formations include the 10, 11, and 12 Mechanized Battalions, 154 and 155 Armoured Regiments, and specialized units like the 851 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment and the Army Peace Operations Training School (APOTS).
The Navy has similarly expanded, creating commands such as the Naval Training Command, Riverine Command, and Naval Logistics Command.
Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) have been established at strategic locations, including Bawku, Nalerigu, Navrongo, and Ezinlibo, which serves as the headquarters of the Navy’s Logistics Command.
The Air Force has also been upgraded with new equipment, including six L-39 ground fighter aircraft, CASA C-295 maritime patrol aircraft, and reconnaissance light attack helicopters to support Special Forces operations.
Equipping and Infrastructure Development
The government has equipped the military with over 100 armored personnel carriers, advanced surveillance systems, night vision equipment, and other critical tools to enhance operational efficiency.
The Navy has acquired five offshore security vessels, including the Ghana Navy Ships (GNS) Volta, Pra, and Densu, for counter-piracy and maritime security operations.
Infrastructure projects include the ongoing Barracks Regeneration Project, the Military Housing Project, and the Ghana Military Academy Infrastructure Project.
The 500-bed Military Hospital in Afari, Ashanti Region, is set to begin operations, while the 37 Military Hospital in Accra is preparing for its next phase of expansion.
National Defence University Charter
The Ghana Armed Forces has also been granted a Presidential Charter to establish the National Defence University (NDU), granting it autonomy.
The NDU will oversee the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), National College of Defence Studies (NCDS), Ghana Military Academy (GMA), and the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
Adapting to Modern Challenges
General Oppong-Peprah’s promotion symbolizes the Armed Forces’ commitment to adapting to evolving security demands and ensuring effective command across its expanded framework.
This milestone reflects a strategic vision to strengthen Ghana’s military capabilities while maintaining its reputation as one of the most professional Armed Forces in the region.
As Ghana confronts contemporary threats, these developments signal a robust and well-equipped military ready to safeguard national and regional security.
