By Patience Tawiah, GNA
Nkwanta (O/R), July 24, GNA – The Ghana Armed Forces has officially concluded the Central Command Exercise Starlight Stretch II 2026 in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and security in the area. Â
The closing ceremony, held at the GNAT Hall in Nkwanta, brought together senior military officers, representatives of other security agencies, local government officials and other distinguished guests to mark the successful completion of the military exercise.
Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, the Chief of the Army Staff, addressing participants at the ceremony, commended the officers and soldiers who participated in the operation for their professionalism, discipline and dedication throughout the exercise.
He noted that the successful execution of Exercise Starlight Stretch II demonstrated the readiness and operational capability of the Ghana Armed Forces to respond effectively to security challenges while supporting civil authorities in maintaining law and order.
Major General Gbetanu disclosed that although the current phase of the exercise had ended, another face of the operations in the area would continue from August to December 2026 with a fresh contingent of personnel.
According to him, the rotation forms part of the Armed Forces’ strategy to sustain security operations and ensure lasting peace in the Municipality.
He expressed appreciation to the Oti Regional Minister and the Municipal Chief Executive for Nkwanta South for their unwavering support and collaboration throughout the operation.
He also commended the security agencies and residents who cooperated with the military, stressing that such partnerships are essential to achieving sustainable peace.
The Army Chief appealed to the residents of the area to put aside their differences and embrace peaceful coexistence for the benefit of future generations.
He stressed that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.
He cautioned that the Ghana Armed Forces would not hesitate to deal decisively, within the confines of the law, with any individual or group that attempts to disrupt the peace and security of the municipality or any part of the country.
Exercise Starlight Stretch II forms part of the Ghana Armed Forces’ efforts to strengthen security, improve operational readiness and support ongoing peace-building initiatives in conflict-prone areas, particularly in Nkwanta South and Bawku where intermittent disturbances have affected lives, livelihoods, and socio-economic development.
The closing ceremony was held under the theme “enhancing operational readiness and capability to project decisive land power in conventional warfare and is/coin operations.”
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah