No military base in Ghana – US

The American Embassy in Ghana has denied reports that the United States of America has reached an agreement with Ghana to establish a military base in the West African country.

The embassy, in a statement on Tuesday, 20 March 2018, said: “The United States Embassy wishes to underscore that the United States has not requested, nor does it plan to establish a military base or bases in Ghana.”

The statement further said: “The current Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between the United States of America and the Republic of Ghana, is approximately 20 years old. It does not cover the current range and volume of bilateral exercises and assistance.

“This year, the United States of America is investing over $200million in training and equipment for the Ghanaian armed forces. Ghana is also once again preparing to train U.S Forces as it did in 2017.

“The United States and Ghana are planning joint security exercises in 2018 which require access to Ghanaian bases by U.S participants and those from other nations when included. We refer all questions to the government of Ghana.”

On Monday, 20 March 2018, it was widely reported in the media that Ghana had given America the go-ahead to set-up a military base.

A leaked document said Ghana had also agreed to bear the cost and take primary responsibility for securing U.S. military facilities in the country.

According to the document, Ghana had also granted U.S contractors tax exemption.