(Accra, Ghana – July 23, 2025) Ghana’s Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), describing it as a vital national and regional hub for security research and policy development.
During his maiden official visit to the Centre on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, Dr. Omane Boamah, who was accompanied by his deputy, Hon Ernest Brogya Genfi and staff officers from Ghana’s Ministry of Defence, highlighted the government’s resolve to utilise evidence-based data generated by KAIPTC to drive Ghana’s peace and security agenda. He stressed that such data would ensure that interventions by security institutions are targeted, strategic, and capable of identifying high-risk areas and emerging threats.
“This Centre holds immense value not just for Ghana but for the entire sub-region. The government and military high command will continue to depend on KAIPTC’s research and expertise to inform security policy and action,” he said.
Ensuring Sustainability and Infrastructure Growth
The Minister’s visit focused on deepening collaboration between KAIPTC and the government, especially in ensuring the Centre’s long-term sustainability. Key issues discussed included the need for financial support to retool the Centre and address pressing infrastructure deficits. Dr. Omane Boamah acknowledged these infrastructural challenges and gave assurances that the government was ready to provide the needed assistance to position KAIPTC for greater impact.
Tackling Security Challenges
The Defence Minister also used the occasion to address key national security concerns. He spoke on the ongoing threats of violent extremism and their link to the conflict in Bawku, as well as broader issues fuelling regional tensions, such as chieftaincy-related disputes.
He revealed that government investigations are underway regarding the movement and theft of ammunition involving state agencies in 2024. He cautioned that weapons diverted through such channels often end up in the wrong hands, exacerbating communal conflicts.
“We are committed to ensuring that all individuals involved in illegal arms transfers and violence, particularly those hiding behind chieftaincy claims, are brought to justice. We cannot afford to compromise national security,” he stated firmly.
KAIPTC’s Call for Support
Welcoming the Minister, the Acting Commandant of KAIPTC, Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, outlined the Centre’s vision of becoming a top-tier security think tank in West Africa. He noted that the Centre continues to play a critical role in training, research, and policy advocacy for peace and security, but underscored the urgent need for resources to enhance its effectiveness.
“We are optimistic that the government will provide the necessary support to retool the Centre and invest in infrastructure that allows us to meet current and future security challenges,” Air Commodore Akrong said.
The visit concluded with a renewed sense of partnership between the Ministry of Defence and the KAIPTC, signaling a shared commitment to advancing peace, security, and stability across Ghana and the region.
