Story: Flight Sergeant Aidoo O

Photo: Corporal Dodoo DN

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) held its Mid-Year Religious Thanksgiving Parade on Sunday, 19 July 2026, at the Burma Hall, Burma Camp, under the theme “Pause, Reflect and Thank God for His Faithfulness.”

The interdenominational gathering featured exhortations, Quran recitation, Bible readings and a sermon aimed at encouraging personnel to acknowledge God's guidance and protection throughout the first half of the year.

Delivering the sermon, the Director General Religious Affairs of GAF, Apostle Dr Brigadier General Benjamin Godson Kumi-Woode urged personnel to take time to reflect on their lives and careers and express gratitude to God for His faithfulness.

He noted that despite the challenges and demands associated with military service, God had continued to provide guidance, protection and strength to personnel and their families. Brigadier General Kumi-Woode further encouraged members of the Armed Forces to cultivate a heart of gratitude while remaining faithful, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their duties.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) , Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, reminded personnel of the significance of the Thanksgiving Parade.

The CDS stated that the gathering was not only a long-standing tradition but also an opportunity for personnel to pause from their daily responsibilities and acknowledge God's enduring faithfulness.

According to him, the theme for the occasion invited personnel to look back with thanksgiving and look ahead with renewed confidence, recognising God as a refuge and source of strength amid the demands of military service and the uncertainties of the times.

Lieutenant General Agyapong also reflected on some of the challenges faced by the nation during the year, particularly the recent widespread flooding that affected several communities. He expressed gratitude for the courage, resilience and solidarity demonstrated during the difficult period and offered prayers for those still recovering from their losses.

The CDS further commended officers, soldiers and defence civilian staff for their exemplary participation in clean-up exercises directed by the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, President John Dramani Mahama, describing their efforts as a demonstration of patriotism, discipline and unwavering commitment to national service.

As GAF enters the second half of the year, the CDS urged personnel to allow the Thanksgiving gathering to renew their faith, deepen their gratitude and strengthen their resolve to serve the nation with honour, humility and unity.

The parade concluded with prayers for God's continued guidance, protection and blessings upon the Country, Ghana Armed Forces and personnel deployed in peacekeeping missions.