Ghana Armed Forces graduates 20 special operations personnel

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has graduated 20 operators from its Special Operations Forces Basic Course 5-26 as the military intensifies efforts to strengthen its capacity to respond to emerging security threats, particularly along the country’s northern borders.

The operators graduated on Friday, October 16, at Gondar Barracks in Accra after nine months of intensive training under the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB).

Addressing the graduates, Acting Chief of the Army Staff Brigadier General Franklyn Kwasi Agbebo stressed the importance of special operations forces in tackling evolving security challenges through intelligence-led operations, precision and rapid response.

He underscored the need to strengthen border security and counterterrorism capabilities, particularly along Ghana’s northern frontiers, and urged the newly qualified operators to uphold discipline, physical fitness, tactical proficiency and professional integrity.

Brigadier General Agbebo reminded them that the special operations badge represented responsibility rather than privilege, urging them to approach their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of commitment.

The Commander of ASOB, Brigadier General Richard Kainyi Mensah, commended the brigade for its performance in international military exercises and competitions, particularly its silver medal achievement at the 2026 Cambrian Patrol in the United Kingdom.

He described the feat as a historic achievement for an African country, highlighting the brigade’s growing capabilities and the professionalism of its personnel.

Brigadier General Mensah also announced that assessment and selection for the Special Operations Forces Basic Course 6 would take place in November 2026. He encouraged qualified female officers and soldiers to pursue opportunities to join the specialised unit.

The course began with 87 personnel, comprising two officers and 85 soldiers, who underwent assessment and selection in November 2025. Thirty candidates qualified for the training, which commenced on January 12, 2026.

After nine months of demanding training, 20 personnel — one officer and 19 soldiers — successfully completed the course.

The commander expressed appreciation to the Military High Command, supporting formations, training institutions and international partners for their continued support in developing the brigade’s operational capabilities.