The Air Force Headquarters, in collaboration with the Air Force Base Accra, held its End-of-Year West African Soldiers’ Social Activities (WASSA) celebration on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, at the Air Force Base Accra. The event provided a relaxed platform for personnel to unwind after a demanding year while strengthening esprit de corps and cohesion within the Ghana Air Force.

In his welcome address, the Base Commander of Air Force Base Accra, Air Commodore Elvis King Arneson, expressed appreciation to personnel and their families for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices throughout the year. He also conveyed gratitude to the Military High Command for its guidance and support and extended New Year felicitations to all personnel.

Delivering the keynote address, the Guest of Honour and Immediate Past Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Frederick Asare Bekoe (Rtd), urged personnel of the Ghana Air Force to continue upholding the core values of integrity, selflessness, hard work, and excellence as they conclude the 2025 working year.

He commended the leadership of the Ghana Air Force for their dedication during what he described as a busy and productive year. Air Marshal Bekoe noted that despite the tragic air disaster of 6 August 2025, which claimed the lives of personnel and deeply affected the nation, the Service remained resilient and continued to deliver on its national security mandate. He further expressed satisfaction with the steady progress of major infrastructure projects across various Bases, including the establishment of a permanent site for the Tactical Air Command at Bui.

The Guest of Honour also welcomed the Government’s approval for the acquisition of three helicopters and a fixed-wing aircraft, noting that the new platforms would significantly enhance the operational readiness of the Service. He praised the improved civil-military relations and encouraged personnel to maintain professionalism in their interactions with the public and sister security agencies. He further commended the WASSA Planning Committee for the successful organisation of the event and led participants in observing a minute of silence in honour of fallen service personnel, including those who lost their lives in the 6 August helicopter crash.

As part of the ceremony, special recognition awards were presented to deserving individuals. Mrs Florence Akakpo was honoured for her commitment and distinguished contributions to duty at the Executive Lounge of the Base. Additionally, two guards previously deployed at the residence of the former Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Marshal Samson Oje, were recognised for their dedication. Corporal Yakubu Awudu and Leading Aircraftman Salifu were each presented with a motorbike, sponsored by the former CDS.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Flight Sergeant Kpodo Abigail, who was adjudged the Overall Best Soldier of Air Force Base Accra. She received a 43-inch television set and a citation in recognition of her exemplary leadership, dedication, and outstanding work ethic.

The event was well attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, Service Chiefs, the Chief of Staff, Commandants and Formation Commanders, as well as Directors-General and Directors from the General Headquarters, Army, Navy and Air Force Headquarters. Representatives from corporate organisations, including Global Cargo, Polychanda, and 3AMS Celms Ltd, were also present. The celebration concluded with warm interaction and goodwill exchanges among the Guest of Honour, dignitaries, and personnel.