News Desk Report
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo –Addo, has said that as government steps up efforts to fight illegal mining popularly known as galamsey, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) also has the duty to lead the fight against the menace.
Speaking at the presentation of Colours to the Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment (Recce) of the Ghana Armed Forces in Accra last weekend, President Akufo-Addo stated, “As government intensifies its efforts to curb the illegal mining phenomenon, Ghanaians would continue to rely on the efforts of our Security Services, with the Armed Forces in the forefront, to help deal with the problem.”
He said he was optimistic that as always, the Armed Forces would rise to the occasion, stating that Ghanaians owe a great debt of gratitude to the Armed Forces, for showing their preparedness to put their lives on the line to keep the nation safe.
The ceremony, the very first in the history of the GAF to be held for the Regiment, was in tune with long-standing military traditions across the world. It has been the sole preserve for units in the Infantry.
However, the decision to present the Regiment with its own Colours is in line with a decision taken to present them to deserving Combat Support Units of the GAF.
President Akufo-Addo noted that the traditional challenges to security-chieftaincy conflicts, land disputes, religious intolerance, ethnic conflicts and political rivalry- were being compounded by contemporary threats like drug and human trafficking, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, armed robberies, cyber-crime and activities of nomadic herdsmen.
“We are committed to providing you with modern military equipment which would complement the training you would receive. Government is also committed to enriching the human resource base of the Armed Forces by supporting initiatives that will provide further education for soldiers, sailors, and airmen to enhance further their skills at protecting our territorial integrity.”
He assured, “In terms of military preparedness, government will actively support contemporary training methods that will not only keep you abreast with international military trends but will also ensure that you remain the beacon of Armed Forces across the continent.
He commended the Officers and Men of the Armoured Recce Regiment for their commitment to duty and their overall contribution to the GAF since its establishment in 1963.
“For well over 54 years, this Regiment has provided armoured support to Infantry Units deployed on various national and international peace support operations,” he said.
