Lieutenant General Obed Boamah Akwa

Born on June 20, 1955, in Ghana, Lt. Gen. Akwa has served in various key positions, demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise in global security, defense, and strategic studies.

He began his journey by enlisting in the Ghana Military Academy in October 1975. As a part of his basic military training, he attended the prestigious Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, United Kingdom, from 1976 to 1977. His commitment to academic excellence is evident through his qualifications, which include an MSc in Global Security from Cranfield University, England (2003), an MSc in Defense and Strategic Studies from Madras University, India (1977), and a Certificate in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, Accra, Ghana (1989).

Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Ghana Army in March 1977, Lt. Gen. Akwa embarked on a distinguished military career. His extensive knowledge of global security, defense, and strategic studies, coupled with a profound understanding of international peace support operations, set the foundation for his exceptional service.

Throughout his career, Lt. Gen. Akwa assumed various critical roles. He served as the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to former President John Agyekum Kuffuor from 2005 until the conclusion of the President's term in January 2009. This position allowed Lt. Gen. Akwa to showcase his capabilities as a trusted military aide, responsible for the President's security and operational matters.

Lt. Gen. Akwa demonstrated his leadership prowess as the Western Brigade Commander and Ghanaian Contingent Commander with the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Congo (MONUSCO). His time in this role showcased his ability to oversee complex operations and successfully execute peacekeeping missions.

Recognizing his exceptional leadership qualities, Lieutenant General Akwa was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff on July 1, 2016, by former President John Mahama. In this capacity, he provided strategic direction and spearheaded the development of the Ghana Armed Forces, ensuring operational readiness and maintaining national security.

Following his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Akwa was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of Chief of the Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces from February 2017 to February 2021. In this high-ranking position, he played a pivotal role in coordinating and overseeing the entire defense apparatus of Ghana. Lt. Gen. Akwa's commitment to excellence, professionalism, and his vast experience contributed significantly to the growth and modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces.