The Finance Minister and acting Minister of Defence, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has inaugurated the Butler Barracks accommodation and office complex, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and operational readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The inauguration, one of Dr Forson’s final official engagements as acting Minister of Defence ahead of handing over the portfolio, saw the opening of new facilities for the Central Ordnance Depot, the Ghana Armed Forces Central Band and the Armed Forces Music School.
Address
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Forson said the project reflected the government’s commitment to improving the welfare, working environment and operational readiness of the Armed Forces.
He said his period at the Ministry of Defence had given him a deeper appreciation of the infrastructure and welfare needs of military personnel.
He said while the government could not meet every infrastructure requirement of the Ghana Armed Forces on its own, stronger partnerships with the private sector could help to accelerate the delivery of critical defence infrastructure.
Dr Forson said the inauguration demonstrated what could be achieved when the government and the private sector worked together towards a common national objective.
Butler Barracks complex
The Butler Barracks complex provides modern accommodation, administrative offices, classrooms, rehearsal halls and welfare facilities aimed at improving operational efficiency and the quality of life of personnel.
Dr Forson expressed particular satisfaction with the new Music Hall and Auditorium for the Ghana Armed Forces Central Band, describing it as befitting the band’s important role in preserving military traditions, promoting national pride and supporting national ceremonies.
He said the government would continue to pursue innovative and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development across the Ghana Armed Forces while prioritising the completion of critical and ongoing projects.
Afari Military Hospital pledge
Dr Forson, who is also the Minister of Finance, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the Afari Military Hospital.
He commended the Military High Command, the Ministry of Defence, Messrs Unique Development Limited, the project team and all whose work contributed to the successful delivery of the Butler Barracks facilities.
The outgoing acting Defence Minister urged personnel who will use the facilities to adopt a strong maintenance culture to preserve the infrastructure for future generations.
He stressed that the facilities represented a valuable national investment, and must be properly maintained to ensure they continued to serve the Ghana Armed Forces for many years.
The ceremony comes as Dr Forson wraps up his responsibilities at the Ministry of Defence after serving as acting Minister alongside his substantive role as Minister of Finance for a year.
