As we gather to commemorate the season of giving and togetherness, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Officers, Ratings and Defence Civilian Staff of the Ghana Navy and their families.
Christmas is a time for reflection, appreciation and togetherness. It is also a time to acknowledge the contributions and support of all who have made a difference in our lives and communities. The season affords us the opportunity to celebrate our achievements and renew our commitment to creating a better future.
The year has been filled with some achievements despite some challenges. That notwithstanding, your dedication and hard work as a team has been unwavering and I am grateful for the commitment you have shown, hence inspired by your resilience and determination.
2023 for the Ghana Navy was marked by a number of significant achievements. These include the successful launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy by the President of the Republic and Commander in Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo during the third edition of the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference at Burma Camp. This sought to bolster effective collaboration amongst key stakeholders within Ghana’s security architecture and international partners for a safe and secure maritime domain in a quest to maintain a blue economy.
To ensure effective and professional discharge of our duties and in line with governments efforts at retooling the Ghana Navy, two Boundary Class Boats were acquired from the United States to augment our fleet and we are grateful to the government.
Again, the Ghana Navy received a Multi-Purpose Catamaran Boat by McHammah Company Limited, a local Engineering Company to aid in search and rescue missions and also enhance operational capabilities within the Navy. This undoubtedly serves as a reminder of the Navy’s role in safeguarding its shores and national interests both internally and externally, and also underscores the unwavering support and commitment of the local business community to the Armed Forces.
Furthermore, Ghana Navy’s signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Fly Zipline Ghana Limited, a drone delivery company to offer assistance in the recovery of their lost drones and supplies among the major river bodies in the country is an opportunity to enhance collaborations in the area of capacity building and affording training opportunities between the two institutions. With plans underway of forming the Ghana Navy Drone Squadron, the team would be responsible for operating its drones to assist in search and rescue operations.
The activation of the Ghana Armed Forces’ Search and Rescue Operation, “OP BOAFO”, together with the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) brought to bear the Navy’s role in assisting victims affected by the flooding in some parts of the Volta Region due to the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams. The Ghana Navy was able to rescue about 1800 victims in Mepe and Aveyime Districts. To avoid the risk of flooding at the Sogakope bridge, our personnel were deployed at the bridge to clear the weeds impeding flow of the water beneath the bridge and also ensure lives and properties were safe.
I led a team to some of the areas together with the Chief Executive Officer of NADMO, Nana Agyeman Prempeh to ascertain the level of the situation and the extent of damage and interacted with some of the victims to lessen fear and panic caused.
Additionally, construction of a new and befitting Senior Rates Mess is far advanced and very soon, it shall be handed over to the Navy to enable the Senior Rates have a better place to rest after a hard day’s work.
These strides by far, have been instrumental to the success and development of the Ghana Navy for the year in particular. Despite some challenges faced, I am truly grateful for the commitment and dedication shown. I want to also acknowledge your efforts in team building which has strengthened our unity and collaboration. I want to specially thank all our spouses and families who have stood beside us throughout the year. It has been their loving care, prayers, and support which have seen us this far.
As we celebrate this joyous occasion and exchange gifts and goodwill, let us also exchange heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work that has brought us to this moment. May the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with joy and warmth, and may the coming year bring you success and fulfilment.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous Christmas and prosperous New Year. To a year filled with successful team initiatives and accomplishments.!!!
