US donates $6Million worth of armored vehicles to Ghana for enhanced security

The United States Government has donated 14 armoured personnel carriers (APCs)  amounting $6 million to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), with an initiative aimed at substantially improving the domestic security of the country and broaden management strategies as well.

The official handover ceremony was held on Wednesday at Burma Camp in Accra, highlighting a milestone both countries hailed as  strengthening bilateral defense partnership and long-standing security ties.

The Puma M36 vehicles are intended to provide better troop protection and movement in high-threat areas , enhancing Ghana’s operational capabilities in countering new security challenges and defending its territorial security. 40 Ghanaian soldiers have received advance training programs for the past four weeks on the maintenance and operation of vehicles.

The donation contribute to the growing list of U.S. military support to Ghana in recent years, which includes the provision of patrol boats, mobile field hospitals, and critical infrastructure to reinforce the country’s defence systems.

In her speech at the handing over ceremony , U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Madam Virginia Palmer, described the donation as a demonstration of mutual support rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and shared dedication to peace and security.

U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Madam Virginia Palmer, stated that “These APCs support the GAF’s mission of ensuring peace and border integrity, which makes both Ghana and the United States safer. They are part of a broader commitment that includes continued training and joint operations.”

Madam Virginia Palmer commended Ghana’s leadership in regional security, especially with its northern frontiers, and stressed its support for international peacekeeping missions, including operations like Flintlock and African Lion.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Minister of Defence, showed appreciation to the U.S. government, calling the donation “Thoughtful and impactful”

Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Minister of Defence, said that “This occasion is not just a symbol of the enduring partnership between our two countries. It is a tangible expression of our shared commitment to peace, stability, and security within Ghana and across the West African sub-region.”

He praised the skill and competence of the Ghana Armed Forces and urged personnel to demonstrate a heightened sense of responsibility in executing their mission.

The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, representatives from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), and members of the diplomatic community. The event occurred simultaneously with the Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), marking the end of World War II in Europe, highlighting the global importance of collaborative security.

The donation adds to a growing list of U.S. military support to Ghana in recent years, which includes the provision of patrol boats, mobile field hospitals, and critical infrastructure to reinforce the country’s defence systems.

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