The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has officially broken ground for three major redevelopment projects aimed at improving accommodation and welfare infrastructure for military personnel. The projects include the redevelopment of Burma Camp-Medo Lines, El-Wak Barracks and GAF Post Office, which will be transformed into a modern multi-use facility.
The housing component of the projects will comprise two-bedroom apartments and studio apartments designed to help address the accommodation deficit facing personnel across GAF.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Minister for Defence and Guest of Honour, Hon Ernest Brogya Genfi, described the initiative as more than a construction project, emphasising its strategic importance to GAF.
“This project is bigger than the bricks and mortar we see today,” he said. “It is rooted in the morale of our personnel. It is about retention, operational readiness, and ultimately, national security.”
According to the Deputy Minister, providing decent accommodation for military personnel and their families is essential to building a stronger nation. He acknowledged the longstanding accommodation challenges confronting GAF, noting that as the military continues to undertake expanded responsibilities including maritime security, counterterrorism preparedness, internal security operations and international peace support missions , therefore , the need for urgent quality housing.
Hon Brogya Genfi stressed that housing should no longer be viewed merely as a welfare concern but as a strategic investment in national security. He noted that President and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, remains firmly committed to improving accommodation and welfare infrastructure under the government’s Resetting Ghana Agenda.
He further disclosed that the redevelopment projects form part of the government’s broader commitment to military infrastructure development, including the on-going 10,000 housing programme, which seeks to provide modern residential accommodation across military garrisons over the medium term.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) Support Services Brigade, Major General Glover Ashong Annan, in his remarks stated that Burma Camp remains the administrative and operational hub of GAF. However, he noted that much of its residential and supporting infrastructure dates back to the colonial era and no longer adequately serves the housing and welfare needs of a modern and professional military.
He explained that the Burma Camp Redevelopment Project is a visionary initiative designed to replace ageing infrastructure with durable, sustainable and modern residential facilities that will significantly improve the living conditions of personnel.
Major General Ashong said the project demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Government of Ghana and the Military High Command to enhancing the welfare of service personnel while creating an environment that promotes productivity, boosts morale and supports family well-being.
He expressed appreciation to the Military High Command, development partners and all stakeholders whose support has made the redevelopment projects possible.
The ground breaking ceremony was attended by the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong; the Service Chiefs; some senior military officers; retired officers; distinguished guests; officers; soldiers and Defence Civilian Staff.
