A transfer of authority parade has been held, at which a change of command took place between Commanding Officers (COs) of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Ghanaian Battalions (GHANBATTs) 90 and 91, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Frank Kwesi Agyeman and Lt Col Isaac Kobe Boako, respectively.
The smooth transfer of authority, signifying unity and success, and the official handing over of operational responsibility of Southern Lebanon, took place on Thursday 12 September 2024, at the Seth Obeng Camp, Al Qawzah, Lebanon.
Lt Col FK Agyeman in his farewell remarks stated emphatically that, “I have no doubt that the new CO Lt Col Isaac Kobe Boako and his troops will continue to uphold attained values and excel in their mission”, thanking God for the successes of the Battalion, the mission leadership and to Ghana’s Military hierarchy for the opportunity given him to serve.
Giving the final remarks, UNIFIL Sector West Commander – Brigadier General (Brig Gen) Steffano Messina, commended Lt Col FK Agyeman and his troops, for their commitment, dedication and determination in the discharge of their duties, and congratulated the incoming CO and his troops, urging them to uphold the set standard and the flag of Ghana.
Brig Gen Messina added that, UNIFIL GHANBATT holds a crucial position, overseeing the longest stretch of the Blue Line in Sector West, emphasizing the importance of the battalion’s mission.
He concluded that the Ghanaian contingent does not only contribute the largest number of female peacekeepers, but also committed to gender equality and inclusivity, in participating in peacekeeping operations, as affirmed by the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325.
In attendance included Ghana Embassy’s Defence Attaché, Lebanon, resident in Cairo, Egypt – Air Commodore Reginald Yaw Cole; the 5th Lebanese Armed Forces Brigade Commander – Brig Gen Michel Bardawil; Mayors and the Force Sergeant Major – Master Warrant Officer Dormah Richard.
Credit: PI CELL, UNIFIL GHANBATT 91
