Story: Nana Kofi Agyeman (2 Garrison PR Detachment, Takoradi)

Pictures : ACI Ankomah Robert Peters and Mr Jasper Sackey

Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi has officially handed over Command of Air Force Base Takoradi to Group Captain Kwabena Krampah Antwi at the Base Headquarters on Friday, 7 August 2026.

The ceremony marked the end of Air Commodore Yirenkyi's tenure as Base Commander as well as the 2 Garrison Commnader and the assumption of command by Group Captain Antwi. Air Commodore Yirenkyi is proceeding to the Republic of South Africa to serve as Ghana’s Defence Attache.

In his farewell address, Air Commodore Yirenkyi described the occasion as a significant milestone in his military career and in the history of the Base and 2 Garrison. He expressed a mixture of pride, gratitude and nostalgia as he reflected on his tenure and his final appearance before personnel as Base Commander.

He expressed appreciation to the Ghana Armed Forces High Command, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, and other superior authorities for the opportunity and privilege to serve as the Base Commander of AFB-TAK.

Air Commodore Yirenkyi also thanked personnel of the Base for their support and dedication to duty, while extending his appreciation to his family, spouse, friends and corporate organisations for their immense support throughout his tenure. He urged personnel to extend the same support to his successor.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Special Guest, the Western Regional Minister, Hon Joseph Nelson, said the occasion was a reminder that institutions were greater than individuals and that although leadership changed, the mission endured.

He noted that the transition reflected the discipline, professionalism and excellence for which the Ghana Armed Forces was known. The Minister further commended Air Commodore Yirenkyi for his excellent working relationship with the Western Regional Security Council, highlighting the cooperation, professionalism and mutual respect that characterised their engagements.

Hon Nelson said Air Commodore Yirenkyi, in his capacity as 2 Garrison Commander, had worked tirelessly to contribute to the security and stability of the Western Region. On behalf of the people of the Western Region and the Government of Ghana, he expressed appreciation to the outgoing Base Commander for his service and wished him success in his next appointment. He also congratulated Group Captain Kwabena Krampah Antwi on his appointment and urged him to continue working closely with the Regional Security Council, traditional authorities and the civilian population.

The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Chief of Staff Administration, GHQ, GAF, Air Vice Marshal Reginald Yaw Cole; Flag Officer Commanding Naval Logistics Command, Commodore Eric Osei; Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono; Commodore Superintendent, Naval Shipyard, Commodore Roger Bagoniah; representatives of the Western Regional Security Council and other security agencies, senior officers, officers, and Traditional rulers.