Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang laying a wreath in honour of the fallen heroes
The Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has charged the Ghana Navy to collaborate with other maritime stakeholders to improve maritime security and preserve the country’s territorial integrity.
She indicated that a secured maritime domain will provide an enabling environment for the blue economy to serve both the present and future generations.
According to the Vice President, although the Gulf of Guinea faces various security threats, the country’s maritime domain remain relatively safe.
“We owe this security to the Ghana Navy,” the Vice President pointed out.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang was speaking at a parade at the Sekondi Naval Base on Sunday to climax this year’s Ghana Navy Memorial Day activities.
The day is observed annually on September 14, to honour the gallant personnel who sacrificed their lives in service to the Ghana Navy.
This solemn occasion offers a moment to reflect on the Navy’s enduring legacy in safeguarding Ghana’s maritime sovereignty and contribution to regional and international peace and security.
This year’s celebration is particularly significant as it marks the 35th year since the bombing of Ghana Navy Ship (GNS) YOGAGA in Liberia during ECOMOG operations, and the 11th year since the Memorial Day was instituted.
This year’s Memorial Day is on the theme, “Sacrifice, Service and Sovereignty: The Legacy of the Ghana Navy”.
The Vice President noted that government is aware of the constraints facing the Navy, including insufficient platforms and other facilities.
“We are exploring every avenue to better equip the Ghana Navy and tackle the other challenges with the urgency they deserve,” she indicated.
She added, “The courage of the fallen heroes was forged in duty and their sacrifices edged into freedom we inherit today.”
She said, “In particular, we honour those who died in the attack of GNS YOGAGA in Liberia about 35 years ago.”
“We also remember all those who died in similar circumstances and in accidents,” she pointed out.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Real Admiral Godwin Livinus Blessing, said Ghana’s military personnel have stood in the line of fire not only for themselves but for the safety, dignity and peace of the country.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Sekondi