The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced a major recruitment exercise beginning this week as part of a three-year plan to strengthen the nation’s defence capacity. The initiative, endorsed by President and Commander-in-Chief John Dramani Mahama, will see 12,000 new personnel join the force by 2028.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Hon. Ernest Brogya Genfi, confirmed the exercise, stressing that it forms a central part of the government’s commitment to making recruitment affordable, accessible, and fair. He revealed that the cost of recruitment forms has been cut by more than 40 percent compared to the previous exercise.
“The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is undergoing a massive expansion beginning this week. Over the next 3 years, GAF will recruit 12,000 personnel to reinforce our national defence capabilities”
Hon. Ernest Brogya Genfi, Deputy Minister of Defence
The Ministry of Defence underscored that the exercise will be conducted across all regions of Ghana to ensure equal opportunity and national inclusion. According to officials, this decision reflects the government’s determination to build a truly national military force that “mirrors the country’s diversity and oneness.”
Hon. Genfi explained that the process is designed to allow every qualified Ghanaian an equal chance to serve. “We are building a force that reflects the strength, discipline, and unity of Ghana,” he stated.
The Ministry explained that details regarding qualifications, procedures, and regional recruitment centres will be announced later this week. Information will be made available through the Ministry of Defence website, the Ghana Armed Forces website, selected newspapers, and other electronic platforms.
Warning Against Fraudulent Schemes
As part of the announcement, the Ministry issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent recruitment schemes. It stressed that the process will not be conducted on social media and reiterated that recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces will be without corruption and bias.
“Recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces is NOT for sale – and will NEVER be for sale under our #EagleEyes watch. Any individual or syndicate involved in fraudulent recruitment schemes will be dealt with without mercy”
Ministry of Defence
The Armed Forces also emphasised that all qualified applicants must be medically fit and prepared for the unique demands of military life. In the words of Hon. Genfi, those who aspire to join must be “prepared to abandon all hope of normal life.”
This statement underlines the seriousness of the commitment required of new recruits and the high standards the Armed Forces expect in terms of discipline, fitness, and resilience.
The planned recruitment of 12,000 personnel marks one of the largest expansions of the Armed Forces in recent years, and comes against the backdrop of growing regional security concerns and Ghana’s expanding role in peacekeeping operations.
By reducing costs, ensuring regional inclusion, and prioritising transparency, the Ministry of Defence believes the recruitment drive will enhance public confidence and attract a wide pool of qualified candidates.
Hon. Genfi reaffirmed that the government remains committed to building a force that meets the evolving security challenges of Ghana and the subregion. He added that the current exercise is part of a broader plan to modernise the Armed Forces and position it as one of the most capable and professional forces on the continent.
Officials stressed that transparency and accountability will remain central to the recruitment process. By publishing requirements and centres through official channels, the Ministry aims to prevent exploitation of potential applicants and eliminate opportunities for corruption.
The Minister concluded by encouraging interested Ghanaians to look out for the official release of qualifications and procedures in the coming days, reiterating that the recruitment is open to all who meet the requirements and are willing to serve with dedication.
READ ALSO: Netanyahu To Meet Trump
