Demonstrating a strong and results-driven partnership, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) successfully delivered the National Level Reinforcement Training Package for Military Gender Advisors (RTP-MGA) at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC). The course commenced on Tuesday, 24 March and concluded on Thursday, 2 April 2026.

The course is supported by the Canadian Department of National Defence through its Military Training and Cooperation Programme (MTCP) through the Elsie Initiative and Global Affairs Canada. The nine-day training strengthened the capacity of Military Gender Advisors (MGAs) and Gender Focal Points (MGFPs) to drive gender mainstreaming in both operational and institutional contexts. The training also supports the launch of Phase Two of the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, the Ghana Armed Forces, and UNITAR.

The closing ceremony was chaired by the Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, Brigadier General Zibrim Bawah Ayorrogo. In his remarks, he commended all partners and participants for their contributions towards advancing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Youth, Peace and Security (WYPSI), while calling for greater inclusiveness across other security services.

Gender Advisors and Gender Focal Points from across the Ghana Armed Forces who participated in the course departed better equipped as agents of change, reinforcing a shared commitment between partners and beneficiaries to advancing gender equality and building more inclusive and effective peacekeeping and working environments.

Other distinguished dignitaries in attendance included UNITAR Representative, Colonel William Nortey, Gender Advisor to the Chief of the Defence Staff, Group Captain Theodora Agornyo, Elsie Initiative Senior Liaison Officer, Ms Bertha Desmennu and Focal Point, Elsie Initiative Project at the Department of International Peace Support Operations, Colonel Elvis Asamoah and Mrs Agnes Agbevadi     Special recognition is extended to the Elsie Initiative and Global Affairs Canada for their vital support in delivering the training and advancing women’s meaningful participation in peace operations Chief Programme Officer, WPSI, KAIPTC,  Mrs Agnes Agbevadi.