Deputy Defense Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi has pledged the government’s commitment to further strengthening the Navy’s operational capacity.
He noted that the 2026 Budget includes provisions for the acquisition of two Offshore Patrol Vessels, which are designed with the endurance required for sustained operations.
Mr. Genfi stated that upon delivery, these vessels would significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to secure the country’s maritime domain and protect national interests.
In a related development, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, commented that the recent addition of GNS Pru to the Fleet has strengthened the Navy’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to increasingly complex and asymmetric maritime threats, even amid current resource constraints.
The government has retooled the Ghana Navy with an additional River Class Ship to enhance its maritime presence and ensure operational efficiency.
The vessel, christened the Ghana Navy Ship (GNS) Pru, was commissioned into the fleet during a ceremony that also saw the consecration and presentation of the national and Ghana Navy colours to the Western Naval Command at the Sekondi Naval Base.
The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, stated that the addition of GNS Pru to the Fleet has strengthened the Navy’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to increasingly complex and asymmetric maritime threats, even amid current resource constraints.
He added that the vessel’s commissioning is a clear manifestation of the government’s commitment to equipping the Navy with the modern platforms required to meet both present and future challenges.
He said it was a manifestation of the government’s commitment to equipping the Navy with the platforms required to meet present and future challenges.
Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command (WNC), said the colours received would serve as a constant reminder of the trust reposed in them, and the important responsibility on their shoulders.
Speaking at the commissioning, Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi stated that as a coastal state, Ghana’s defence architecture could not be complete without maritime safety and security.
He noted that the growth of the country’s blue economy made it imperative to safeguard its waters against threats.
He said it was therefore essential that the Ghana Navy is positioned to deliver on its mandate effectively and efficiently.
Mr. Genfi pledged the government’s commitment to further strengthening the Navy’s operational capacity, revealing that the 2026 Budget includes provisions for acquiring two Offshore Patrol Vessels designed with the endurance required for sustained operations.
“With enhanced endurance and capability, GNS Pru will extend our reach, and thereby strengthen patrols, safeguard offshore resources, combat illicit maritime activities, and contribute to regional and international maritime security,” Mr Genfi noted.
Touching on the colours presentation, Mr Genfi noted that the presentation of colours to a military formation was among the highest symbols of national trust and recognition.
He said the colours embodied honour, loyalty, unity, and the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the people they served, noting that the consecration, reinforced the moral and constitutional foundation upon which the military service rested.
He, therefore, urged the personnel to remain unrelenting in their efforts to keep the waters safe, and let the colours inspire their unwavering loyalty, discipline, and dedication to the service of the nation.
The parade was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong; other members of the military high command; heads of sister security agencies in the Western Region; and traditional and religious leaders, among others.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
