As part of a sweeping initiative led by President John Dramani Mahama, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is preparing for a significant expansion, recruiting 12,000 youth over the next four years and introducing basic military training for all National Service Personnel (NSPs).
The Ghana Armed Forces will recruit 12,000 new personnel between 2026 and 2029, with about 3,000 recruits expected each year.
This initiative, announced by Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and approved by the President, is designed to address youth unemployment while enhancing national security capacity.
Candidates have been urged to ensure medical fitness due to the rigorous nature of military training.
Additionally, starting August 3, 2025, all national service personnel will undergo up to two months of mandatory military drills under the new National Service Emergency Response Readiness Programme (NSERRP).
First introduced in President Mahama’s State of the Nation Address, this programme aims to build discipline, patriotism, and physical resilience among graduates.
The National Service Authority and the Ghana Armed Forces are coordinating logistics for the rollout.
These initiatives form part of President Mahama’s broader “National Reset” agenda to strengthen civic responsibility and national preparedness.
Recruitment timelines will be announced between August and October each year, with public awareness campaigns planned to ensure transparency and prevent fraud.
Monitoring mechanisms will also be put in place to uphold the integrity of the process.
By: J.W Quarm
