By Cpl Asante-Danso George & Rabiatu Dery

Pictures by Alfred Nii Laryea and Sgt Damptey

Senior military leaders have been urged to translate the lessons from the maiden Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Seminar with Generals into purposeful leadership and positive transformation across the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

The Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, made the call at the closing of the five-day seminar at The Palms by Eagles Hotel in Accra on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

Held under the theme, “Adaptive Leadership in a Complex Security Environment: The Role of Generals in Shaping Ghana’s Future,” the seminar brought together Generals of the GAF for strategic engagements aimed at strengthening leadership, broadening perspectives and enhancing their capacity to respond to evolving security challenges.

In his closing remarks, the CDS, Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) William Agyapong, described the seminar as a significant milestone in the professional development of the GAF senior leadership. He said the five-day engagement had provided an opportunity for senior officers to learn, reflect, challenge their thinking and strengthen the bonds that unite them as members of the Armed Forces.

Lt Gen Agyapong said the seminar had established what could become a defining tradition in the professional development of the GAF’s senior leadership.

He said practical activities, including a firing-range exercise, reminded participants that effective leadership required not only authority but also competence, which must be continuously developed through regular practice. He added that the various presentations and discussions had broadened participants’ perspectives on national security, diplomacy, ethical leadership, life after retirement and strategic communications.

The CDS commended the Service Chiefs and facilitators for their contributions to the seminar, noting that their presentations, discussions and practical insights had addressed key issues affecting the present and future direction of the Armed Forces. He said the engagements had also fostered a better understanding of the GAF’s current position and its future aspirations.

Lt Gen Agyapong urged the Generals to return to their respective commands, formations and establishments as agents of positive transformation. He encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained during the seminar to their decision-making, professional standards and leadership responsibilities, stressing the importance of continuous learning, professionalism, vision, adaptability and excellence.

He expressed appreciation to the organising team, Ghana Navy, Service Chiefs and all participants for their commitment to making the maiden seminar a success. Lt Gen Agyapong urged participants to uphold the values of courage, commitment and unwavering service to the nation.