Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, has revealed disturbing findings from an audit into military enlistment processes, uncovering cases of recruitment fraud and irregularities within the Ghana Armed Forces.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Presidency on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Minister said an investigation was launched shortly after he assumed office into the enlistment of officer cadets.
The audit covered 452 Ghana Military Academy applicants for the Regular Career Course (RCC) 64 and 65, and the Short Service Course (SSC) 62 intakes. Shockingly, 210 of them representing 46 percent did not meet the required eligibility criteria.
For RCC 64, which is currently undergoing training, 34 cadets were found to have bypassed one or more stages of the enlistment process. Due to the complexity of the situation and regional security risks, the affected trainees have been directed to fulfil all enlistment criteria. However, those who fail to meet the requirements will be dismissed from training.
For RCC 65 and SSC 62 candidates, who have not yet reported, they have been directed to discontinue their enlistment entirely. In their place, 115 Regular and 75 Short Service personnel who meet the criteria have been cleared to begin training in due course.
Dr. Omane Boamah also disclosed that since the last recruitment exercise for non-officer soldiers in October 2021, a total of 2,872 potential Army recruits despite completing all required processes have been left idle without undergoing training.
He described this as a failure of the previous administration, questioning the viability of relying on outdated medical and fitness tests, especially as some have now exceeded the age limit.
“The military is a vocation that demands total commitment and resilience. Quitting is not entertained. It is therefore crucial that recruits meet the standard from the start,” he said.
In response, he stated that the government will open a new recruitment process, and the 2,872 affected individuals are encouraged to reapply, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements.
He said those who do not qualify have been urged not to lose hope, as other employment opportunities will be created under the 24-Hour Economy initiative.
The Minister further announced a bold plan to enlist and recruit 12,000 new personnel into the Ghana Armed Forces over the next three and a half years.
The new recruitment drive will also target specific qualifications to support national development priorities, including agriculture, engineering, biochemistry, and artisanal work, he added.
He cautioned the public against dealing with fraudsters posing as recruitment agents, emphasizing that the Ghana Armed Forces has not delegated any individual or organization to conduct enlistment on its behalf.
“Joining the Ghana Armed Forces under President Mahama will be based solely on merit, not money. That era is over,” he stated.
He concluded by noting that the Ministry of Defence is working to enhance the capabilities of the online recruitment portal ahead of the major manpower enhancement exercise scheduled for August–September 2025.
