The Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has commenced Exercise Starlight Stretch II, marking the beginning of the second phase of the Ghana Army’s 2026/2027 training programme.

The opening ceremony was held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Nkwanta in the Oti Region, with the exercise aimed at improving the operational preparedness and effectiveness of military personnel.

The guest of honour, Joseph Awal Antwi, Municipal Chief Executive for Nkwanta South, expressed confidence in the Ghana Army’s ability to help maintain peace and stability in the area.

He welcomed the troops to Nkwanta and assured them of the Municipal Assembly’s support throughout the duration of the exercise.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Commanding Officer of the 3 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Michael Naah, said the exercise is designed to consolidate achievements from the first phase while further strengthening the readiness of personnel.

He explained that the training will take place simultaneously in Nkwanta and Bawku, demonstrating the Ghana Army’s commitment to maintaining a disciplined, well-trained and mission-ready force capable of responding to emerging security threats.

Lt Col Naah noted that the evolving security environment, including threats such as violent extremism, terrorism and internal security challenges, requires personnel to remain flexible, professional and prepared to work with other security agencies and civil authorities.

He said the exercise will enhance troops’ capabilities in conventional warfare, internal security operations and counter-insurgency efforts, while improving coordination among military units and partner security institutions.

The Commanding Officer urged personnel participating in the exercise to uphold discipline, professionalism and commitment throughout the training period.

He also emphasised the importance of safety, calling on troops to strictly follow exercise guidelines, safety procedures and administrative directives.

The three-week exercise will involve personnel from various units of the Ghana Army and will be conducted in Nkwanta and Bawku.

The Ghana Armed Forces said the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen operational readiness, improve inter-agency cooperation and enhance the country’s capacity to respond to national security challenges.