Ghana Armed Forces Inducts Over 900 New Soldiers and Airmen with Stern Warning on Social Media and Professionalism

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) significantly bolstered its ranks on September 25, 2026, as both the Army and the Air Force held passing-out parades for nearly 1,000 new recruits. At the Army Recruit Training School in Shai Hills, 646 soldiers graduated from the Basic Infantry Training Course, while the Ghana Air Force successfully passed out 293 recruits from Course 1/2026 at the Air Force Recruit Training School in Takoradi. Both ceremonies marked the formal integration of these personnel into the military after six months of intensive training in physical fitness, weapon handling, academics, and military law.

During the Army's ceremony in Shai Hills, Reviewing Officer Brigadier General Edward Awaribey issued a strong caution to the new soldiers regarding their conduct, particularly concerning the use of social media and military uniforms. He emphasized that the successful completion of training is only the beginning of their military careers and urged them to uphold the reputation of the GAF. The recruits were warned against sharing sensitive operational information online, using their uniforms for unauthorized activities, or engaging in illicit drug use. Brigadier General Awaribey reminded the graduates that their military status does not exempt them from the laws of the land and that they must maintain high standards of integrity and humility.

In Takoradi, the Ghana Air Force ceremony was presided over by Air Commodore Richard Danso, who served as the Reviewing Officer. He encouraged the 293 new airmen and airwomen to remain disciplined and adhere to the core values of the GAF as they take on their new responsibilities. The parade followed the administration of the Armed Forces Oath, signifying the recruits' commitment to national service. Like their counterparts in the Army, the Air Force graduates were reminded of the professionalism required to represent Ghana both at home and in future international peace support operations.

Outstanding performance was recognized at both events with several individual awards. In the Army, Recruit Warrant Officer Class I Ebenezer Akwasi Midorse was honored as the Overall Best Recruit, receiving the Chief of the Army Staff’s Award, while Kamina Company was named the Best Company. In the Air Force, the Chief of the Air Staff Award for Best Recruit was presented to Recruit Ampadu Christabel Asantewaa. These awards highlighted excellence in areas such as fieldcraft, tactics, and drilling, setting a benchmark for the new personnel as they begin their official duties within the various units of the Ghana Armed Forces.