Ghana Army launches three-week exercise in Nkwanta to boost operational readiness

The Ghana Army has launched a three-week military training exercise in Nkwanta in the Oti Region as part of efforts to strengthen national security, improve operational readiness and enhance its ability to respond to emerging threats, including violent extremism, terrorism and internal security challenges.

The exercise, code-named EXERCISE STARLIGHT STRETCH II, officially commenced on Monday, July 6, 2026, marking the beginning of the second phase of the Ghana Army's 2026/2027 Training Year.

Military officials say the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to build a highly trained, disciplined and mission-ready force capable of responding effectively to Ghana's evolving security environment while promoting closer collaboration among the country's security agencies.

The military exercise will be conducted simultaneously in Nkwanta and Bawku, bringing together personnel from various formations and units of the Ghana Army.

According to the Army, the training is designed to improve interoperability among troops while strengthening coordination with other security agencies and relevant civil authorities involved in maintaining national peace and security.

The exercise is also expected to enhance joint operational planning, intelligence sharing and rapid response capabilities in areas facing complex security challenges.

Speaking at the launch, the Commanding Officer of the 3 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Naah, said the training seeks to consolidate the achievements recorded during the first phase of the exercise while preparing troops for today's rapidly changing security landscape.

"EXERCISE STARLIGHT STRETCH II is intended to consolidate the gains made during EXERCISE STARLIGHT STRETCH I while further enhancing the operational readiness of personnel," he stated.

He explained that the nature of modern security threats requires security personnel to remain flexible, well-trained and capable of responding to both conventional and asymmetric threats.

"Emerging threats such as violent extremism, terrorism and other internal security challenges require personnel to remain adaptive, professional and prepared to operate jointly with other security agencies and relevant civil authorities," Lt. Col. Naah said.

The exercise will expose participating troops to a range of operational scenarios aimed at strengthening their skills in:

• Counter-terrorism operations.
• Counter-insurgency missions.
• Internal security operations.
• Conventional military warfare.
• Joint operations with other security agencies.
• Civil-military cooperation.

Military authorities believe the training will improve troop preparedness and ensure personnel can respond quickly and effectively to security threats while protecting lives, property and critical national infrastructure.

Lt. Col. Naah urged all participating officers and soldiers to maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism throughout the three-week exercise.

He stressed that strict compliance with operational guidelines and safety procedures would remain a top priority.

"Safety remains paramount. All personnel must strictly adhere to exercise directives, safety regulations and administrative instructions throughout the training," he cautioned.

The Municipal Chief Executive for Nkwanta South, Joseph Awal Antwi, welcomed the deployment of military personnel and expressed optimism that the exercise would contribute significantly to sustaining peace and security in the municipality.

He reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to supporting the Ghana Army throughout the duration of the exercise.

"We are confident in the Ghana Army's ability to restore and maintain peace in this area. We welcome the troops to Nkwanta and assure them of the Municipal Assembly's full support throughout the exercise," he said.

The launch of EXERCISE STARLIGHT STRETCH II comes at a time when Ghana continues to strengthen its national security architecture in response to growing regional instability and evolving security threats across parts of West Africa.

Security experts have consistently highlighted the need for continuous military training, inter-agency cooperation and intelligence-led operations to safeguard the country's territorial integrity and protect citizens from emerging threats.

The Ghana Army says the exercise reflects its unwavering commitment to maintaining a highly professional force capable of supporting national development through peace, stability and effective security operations across the country.