Story: Fg Offr Gaddiel Etwire

Pictures: Cpl Kyereme Evans

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, has successfully completed a three-day working visit to Air Force Base Tamale from Tuesday, 28 to Thursday, 30 April 2026.

The visit forms part of the Ghana Air Force’s leadership engagement efforts aimed at strengthening command presence, boosting morale and reinforcing a shared commitment to operational excellence.

Upon arrival, the CAS was received with a ceremonial guard of honour and warmly welcomed by the Base Commander, Air Commodore Nana Adu-Gyamfi and the Commander, Air Force Training Command (AFTRAC), Air Commodore Richard Danso. He was subsequently briefed on the operational readiness and general state of the Base as well as training activities under AFTRAC.

As part of his programme, the CAS conducted an inspection tour of key ongoing projects geared towards enhancing operational effectiveness and personnel welfare. These included the Base Fish Farm, the “Nkoko-Nketenkete” project, a two-storey studio apartment complex for junior ranks, and the development of a new Base Rest Stop. The projects underscore the Service’s commitment to improving living conditions and promoting self-sufficiency initiatives within the Base.

The visit culminated in a durbar of all ranks held at the Base Garden, where the CAS addressed officers, airmen and Defence Civilian Staff. He commended personnel for their discipline and professionalism, noting that such standards remain central to the reputation of the Ghana Armed Forces.

The CAS emphasised the importance of maintaining physical fitness, reiterating that passing the Basic Fitness Test (BFT) remains a mandatory requirement for promotion. He also acknowledged the critical role of physical training instructors in sustaining operational readiness.

Addressing welfare concerns, the CAS assured personnel that deliberate steps are being taken to address accommodation challenges across the Service, with plans underway to expand housing infrastructure, particularly for senior ranks. He further disclosed plans to upgrade the Base gym with modern equipment to support troop fitness and well-being.

Touching on operational capability, the CAS highlighted ongoing efforts to restore and sustain the Air Force fleet despite global supply chain constraints. He indicated that some MI-17 helicopters are expected to return to full operational status, while others undergo major overhauls to enhance mission readiness.

The visit concluded with an interactive session, providing personnel the opportunity to engage directly with the CAS and contribute to shaping the future direction of the Ghana Air Force.