The Base Commander of Air Force Base Tamale, who doubles as the 6 Garrison Commander, Air Commodore Nana Adu-Gyamfi, has conducted an operational visit to the Mole Airstrip in the Savannah Region on Thursday 16 April 2026. The visit forms part of a series of assessments being undertaken by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) in line with the vision of the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of GAF to improve regional air connectivity and enhance national security infrastructure.

During the inspection, Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi evaluated the current state of the Mole airstrip, focusing on its operational capacity, infrastructure requirements and potential for expansion to meet both civilian and military aviation needs. Speaking during the visit, Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi highlighted that the visit was a vital component of the Chief of the Air Staff’s (CAS) broader strategic vision to expand air infrastructure across the country. He noted that by strengthening facilities in the northern frontiers, the Ghana Air Force aims to ensure rapid response capabilities nationwide. The Base Commander was accompanied by principal staff officers who provided technical insights into the airstrip’s suitability for future upgrades.

As part of the visit, Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi also paid a courtesy call on the Savannah Regional Minister, Honourable Salisu Be-Awuribe at his office in Damongo. During interactions, Air Commodore Nana Adu-Gyamfi underscored the strategic importance of developing regional airstrips to support rapid troop deployment, emergency response operations and socio-economic development. He noted that the Savannah Region, given its vast land size and tourism potential, particularly with the presence of the Mole National Park, stands to benefit significantly from improved air transport infrastructure.

Discussions also centred on the feasibility of enhancing the existing Mole airstrip to support immediate tactical and recreational air operations, alongside the establishment of  a new military barracks integrated with a modern airport facility. Air Commodore Adu-Gyamfi suggested that the proposed airport and military unit be located away from the national park to ensure the project does not adversely affect the national forest reserve or the wildlife ecosystem.

The Regional Minister led the delegation to inspect the site earmarked for the establishment of the new military barracks. He welcomed the initiative and expressed the region’s readiness to collaborate with the Ghana Armed Forces to facilitate the project. He emphasised that the establishment of a military barracks, alongside an airport, would not only enhance security presence but also stimulate economic growth in the region.

The ongoing assessments are expected to inform policy decisions and guide the phased development of aviation infrastructure, ensuring a balance between national security requirements and environmental conservation.