The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) will soon begin a large-scale recruitment drive
aimed at enlisting 12,000 new personnel across the country,
Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi has announced.
The nationwide exercise, which will span multiple years, is part of the government’s plan to strengthen national security, support peacekeeping
missions, and create employment opportunities for young Ghanaians.
Strengthening
Security and Capacity
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Genfi explained that the
expansion is necessary to address the rising security demands facing the
country.
“From border protection to combating illegal mining, maritime piracy, and
cybercrime, our Armed Forces must be adequately staffed and prepared. This
recruitment is therefore not just about numbers but about building a stronger,
more responsive military,” he said.
He added that Ghana’s increasing role in regional peacekeeping also requires
additional personnel.
Recruitment to be
Phased Nationwide
The Ministry of Defence revealed that the 12,000 personnel will be recruited
in phases, with about 4,000 expected to join each year.
The exercise will cover all 16 regions to ensure
inclusivity and address concerns of regional imbalance in past recruitments.
In a bid to make the process more accessible, the cost of application forms
has been slashed by over 40 percent, making it easier for
qualified young people to apply.
Warning Against
Fraud and Corruption
The Deputy Minister issued a strong caution against fraudulent recruitment
practices.
The Ghana Armed Forces recruitment is not for sale. Nobody should pay money
to anyone with the hope of being enlisted. Any person or syndicate engaged in
such acts will be dealt with according to the law,” Mr. Genfi stressed.
He further clarified that no aspect of the recruitment will be conducted via
social media. Official announcements will only be made through the Ministry of
Defence and the Ghana Armed Forces’ verified platforms, as well as traditional
media.
Opportunities and
Challenges Ahead
While the announcement has been welcomed by many, analysts note that the
exercise comes with challenges. Managing the logistics of a nationwide
recruitment, ensuring fairness and meritocracy, and sustaining budgetary
support for training and equipment will be crucial.
However, the project is anticipated to have significant advantages, such as:
- Increased military operational preparedness
- Increased involvement in peacekeeping and regional security operations
- Thousands of new jobs for young people in Ghana
- restored faith in open and honest hiring procedures
Advice to
Prospective Applicants
Authorities advise applicants to:
- Rely only on official GAF and Defense Ministry
communication channels.
- Avoid paying money to
middlemen or unverified agents.
- Prepare to meet the
required academic, medical, and physical fitness standards.
The government views this hiring campaign as a social intervention to reduce youth unemployment as well as a national security necessity in light of the growing security threats. It might be one of the biggest enlargements in Ghana's military's history if carried out openly.