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I'll ensure regional balance in military recruitment - Omane Boamah

28th January 2025 4:13:32 PM

2 mins read
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The Defence Minister-designate, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has pledged to ensure regional balance in military recruitment to promote fairness and inclusivity within the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).Speaking before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized his commitment to equity, highlighting his determination to guarantee that all regions of Ghana are adequately represented in the military.

“I am a student of equity, and I believe it is crucial for the military to reflect the diversity of our nation. We must ensure that every region is given equal opportunity to serve in the military, fostering unity and cohesion across the country,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated during his vetting.He further stressed the importance of creating a military force that is both highly skilled and representative of Ghana's diverse communities.

“When recruitment is balanced across the regions, we are not just building an army; we are strengthening national integration and ensuring every part of the country feels included in the broader goal of national security,” he added.Dr. Omane Boamah assured the committee that addressing regional disparities in military recruitment would be a top priority if confirmed.

“I will do everything in my power to ensure no region is left behind in the recruitment process. The military should be a true reflection of Ghana’s rich diversity,” he concluded.The Defence Minister-designate also urged Ghanaians to refrain from seeking enlistment into the GAF if they do not meet the required qualifications, cautioning that unqualified applicants face significant risks during training.

“Knowing the Ghana Armed Forces and from my experience 17 years ago, if you succumb to the rigorous procedures and rules of engagement without meeting the necessary qualifications, you are likely to suffer. Some recruits even lose their lives during training,” he remarked.He explained that GAF training is intentionally rigorous to ensure recruits meet the physical, mental, and emotional standards necessary for operational excellence.

As a medical advisor, Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized his dedication to maintaining these standards, affirming that he would counsel unqualified applicants to reconsider their decisions."I will be the first to advise such a person not to proceed," he stated, underscoring the importance of adhering to the recruitment process to safeguard the welfare of recruits and uphold the Armed Forces' operational standards.