Principal Staff from the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), Accra, held a forum with Officers and Ratings of the Western Naval Command (WNC) on policies and welfare matters on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, at Naval Base Sekondi.
The interaction was aimed at apprising personnel of new higher command policies and welfare issues, while also providing an avenue for them to share their concerns. The event further offered an opportunity for the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service to sensitise troops on road traffic regulations, discipline on the road, and general fire prevention measures.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Staff Officer (DCSO) Naval Administration, Naval Captain (GN) Isaac Ziem Aratuo, educated personnel on the irresponsible use of social media and the negative effects it could have on the image of the Ghana Armed Forces and its personnel. He advised all ranks to refrain from posting or sharing critical and sensitive information that could compromise operational security.
He noted that promotions, appointments and advancements remain key motivational factors and reminded troops that professional conduct, competence, course performance and assessment reports are major determinants for ratings’ promotions, appointments and advancements. He further stated that the Basic Fitness Test would soon become a requirement for promotion for both officers and ratings, urging personnel to take an active interest in personal training to remain militarily fit at all times.
In his remarks, the Deputy Chief Staff Officer (Naval Policy and Plans), Akotey, elaborated on the Ghana Armed Forces Trust Fund and the Ghana Armed Forces Benevolent Fund. He explained that the Benevolent Fund had been enhanced to enable troops and their dependants to benefit more substantially in the event of the loss of spouses, children or parents compared to the previous arrangement. He therefore encouraged sailors not to opt out but to subscribe wholeheartedly.
The Director Naval Religious Affairs, David Benedict Quayson, urged personnel to eschew social vices and remain faithful in their marriages. He cautioned them against engaging in amorous relationships and advised them to refrain from substance abuse and gambling, noting that such behaviours negatively affect their professional conduct and family lives. Commander Quayson also appealed to Officers and Ratings to properly document their spouses and children.
Representatives from the Ghana Police Service Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) and the Ghana National Fire Service Headquarters in Accra also sensitised personnel on road traffic regulations and fire safety measures.
