A new era for the Ghana Armed Forces

John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 manifesto presents a visionary and transformative roadmap for addressing the Ghana Armed Forces’ (GAF) most pressing needs. With a clear focus on improving welfare, operational readiness, professionalism, and infrastructure, the proposed policies promise to make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for both active and retired personnel of the GAF.

These reforms also extend to their families and have the potential to create a more effective, efficient, and professional military force.

Harmonizing Salaries and Conditions of Service

A major challenge facing the security services has been the wide disparities in salaries, remunerations, and other conditions of service across different agencies. Mahama’s proposal to harmonize these conditions will be a game-changer for the GAF.

The military, being at the core of national defence, often feels the brunt of unfair compensation structures, especially in comparison to other security agencies. This harmonization will not only enhance the financial well-being of soldiers but also instil a sense of equity and fairness.

By addressing these disparities, the plan will significantly boost morale and motivation among military personnel, allowing them to focus on their duties without financial worry.

Furthermore, improving conditions of service goes beyond just salaries. It involves ensuring that all personnel have access to fair promotions, allowances, and retirement benefits, all of which are critical for sustaining a loyal and dedicated military force. Mahama’s manifesto recognizes these needs and outlines specific plans to address them through systematic reviews and adjustments based on current economic realities.

Decentralizing Security Architecture for Effective Response

Decentralization is another core aspect of the manifesto that will directly benefit the Ghana Armed Forces. Bringing security operations closer to the people means that GAF personnel in regions across the country will have a more localized and responsive chain of command.

This decentralization will improve both operational efficiency and the quality of life for soldiers and their families stationed in various parts of the country. By creating a security architecture that is more integrated with local communities, the GAF can better respond to internal threats and emergencies, ensuring that security is proactive rather than reactive.

Enhancing Medical Benefits and Compensation Packages

One of the most critical welfare improvements promised in the manifesto is the enhancement of medical benefits for both active and retired personnel. Currently, many soldiers face difficulties in accessing quality medical care, particularly for their families.

Mahama’s proposal to review and enforce medical packages will guarantee that GAF personnel receive the necessary healthcare support. Moreover, the inclusion of family members in this healthcare coverage underscores the comprehensive nature of this reform.

In addition, the manifesto outlines plans to review compensation packages for soldiers who are injured or lose their lives in the line of duty. This is a crucial reform that will provide financial security and support for the families of fallen soldiers, giving peace of mind to those who risk their lives for national security.

The establishment of a clear and robust compensation framework will ensure that soldiers are adequately rewarded for their sacrifices, further boosting morale and loyalty within the ranks.

Promotions Based on Merit and Transparency

Mahama’s manifesto also addresses one of the long-standing grievances within the GAF—promotions. In recent years, promotions have often been seen as subject to favouritism and political interference, undermining the morale of the armed forces. By pledging to clear the backlog of promotions and ensure that future advancements are based on merit and transparency, the manifesto promotes a culture of fairness and professionalism. This will encourage soldiers to perform at their best, knowing that their hard work and dedication will be recognized and rewarded.

Additionally, the manifesto commits to expanding opportunities for non-commissioned officers (NCOs) to access officer cadet training. This will open new career paths for personnel who have demonstrated leadership and commitment, ensuring that the GAF benefits from a wide pool of talent at all levels of command.

Improving Operational and Combat Readiness

The manifesto's focus on operational and combat readiness is particularly relevant in today’s security environment, where Ghana faces both internal and external threats. Mahama’s proposal to aggressively resource the GAF will improve its ability to respond to these challenges. The expansion of firepower, modernization of equipment, and increased training will create a more robust military force capable of defending the nation’s interests. For the personnel on the ground, this means improved working conditions, better safety measures, and the opportunity to serve with world-class equipment and resources.

Housing and Accommodation for Personnel

Another critical area that Mahama’s manifesto tackles is the issue of housing. Many GAF personnel live in substandard or overcrowded conditions, which directly affects their morale and ability to perform. The construction of new housing units, refurbishment of dilapidated ones, and the expansion of accommodation for all ranks will address this problem.

Additionally, the proposed Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme will enable personnel to own homes, providing long-term financial security and stability for their families. This focus on housing is a recognition of the fundamental importance of living conditions to the overall well-being of military personnel.

Medical Infrastructure and Veterans’ Care

Beyond regular healthcare packages, the manifesto promises to complete and equip the Kumasi Military Hospital (Afari) in the Central Command and initiate the construction of new military hospitals in Ho, Bolgatanga, and Sefwi Wiawso. This expansion of military medical infrastructure will ensure that GAF personnel across the country have access to specialized medical care. Furthermore, the establishment of Veterans’ Referral Departments in military hospitals will address the often-neglected healthcare needs of retired soldiers, ensuring that they receive the attention and care they deserve after their years of service.

Revamping the Defence Industry and Agribusiness

Mahama’s manifesto also recognizes the potential of the GAF to contribute to national development beyond its security mandate. By revamping the defence industry to produce clothing, boots, and accessories for the GAF and other security services, the manifesto outlines a path towards self-sufficiency. Moreover, the establishment of Armed Forces Agribusiness and Processing Units will create new economic opportunities for military personnel, diversifying their skill sets and providing post-retirement employment options.

External Peacekeeping and Allowances

Lastly, the manifesto acknowledges Ghana’s role in international peacekeeping operations. It proposes streamlining peacekeeping operations to align with United Nations requirements, ensuring that personnel selection is transparent and fair. Additionally, Mahama promises to increase the security allowance for personnel engaged in peacekeeping missions, recognizing the critical role these operations play in both international security and the professional development of GAF personnel.

In conclusion, John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 manifesto offers a bold and comprehensive plan for improving the welfare, operational readiness, and professionalism of the Ghana Armed Forces. By addressing critical issues such as salary harmonization, medical benefits, housing, promotions, and operational readiness, the manifesto promises to significantly enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their families.

If implemented, these policies will transform the GAF into a more effective, motivated, and professional force, capable of meeting both national and international security challenges.