Air Force Base Takoradi has a new Base Commander, with Group Captain Kwabena Krampah Antwi taking over from Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi at a colourful ceremony held at the Base Headquarters.
The change of command marks the end of Air Commodore Yirenkyi’s tenure as Base Commander of the Air Force Base Takoradi and Commander of 2 Garrison, as he proceeds to the Republic of South Africa to take up an appointment as Ghana’s Defence Attaché.
The transition, reaffirmed the principle that the strength of Ghana’s security institutions lies in the continuity of their mandate, with successive commanders building on the work of their predecessors to safeguard peace, stability and national security.
Speaking at the ceremony, Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, said the occasion was a reminder that institutions were greater than individuals and that while leadership changed, the mission endured.
He said the orderly transition reflected the discipline, professionalism and institutional strength of the Ghana Armed Forces, stressing that such continuity was critical to maintaining peace and security.
Mr Nelson particularly commended Air Commodore Yirenkyi for his close collaboration with the Western Regional Security Council, describing the relationship as one characterised by cooperation, professionalism and mutual respect.
He noted that the outgoing commander, in his capacity as 2 Garrison Commander, had worked tirelessly with other security stakeholders to contribute to the peace and stability of the Western Region.
The Minister said the relationship between security institutions and the civilian population was essential to maintaining a peaceful environment, noting that effective security required cooperation and mutual confidence between the military, other security agencies, traditional authorities and communities.
He therefore urged Group Captain Krampah Antwi to build on the existing relationship with the Regional Security Council while deepening engagement with traditional authorities and the civilian population.
On behalf of the people of the Western Region and the Government of Ghana, Mr Nelson expressed appreciation to Air Commodore Yirenkyi for his service and wished him success in his new assignment.
He also congratulated Group Captain Krampah Antwi on his appointment and expressed confidence that his tenure would further strengthen the cooperation between the Air Force and stakeholders in the region.
In his farewell address, Air Commodore Yirenkyi described the handover as a significant milestone in his military career and in the history of Air Force Base Takoradi and 2 Garrison.
Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed a mixture of pride, gratitude and nostalgia, while thanking the Ghana Armed Forces High Command, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong, and other superior authorities for the opportunity to serve as Base Commander.
He also expressed appreciation to personnel of the Base for their support, commitment and dedication to duty, and thanked his family, spouse, friends and corporate organisations for their support throughout his tenure.
Air Commodore Yirenkyi urged personnel to extend the same cooperation and support to his successor to enable him to effectively discharge his responsibilities.
The ceremony therefore underscored the importance of continuity within the security architecture of the Western Region, where military and civilian institutions remain interdependent in creating an environment conducive to peace, development and economic activity.
As Group Captain Krampah Antwi assumes command, the expectation is that the established partnership between Air Force Base Takoradi and the wider civilian community will be sustained and strengthened, ensuring that the Base continues to play its role not only in national defence but also in supporting the broader peace and security objectives of the region.
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