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The 16 Artillery Brigade has successfully held its maiden End-of-Year West African Soldiers’ Social Activities (WASSA) celebration, marking a year of establishment and notable operational progress. The event took place on Friday, 9 January 2025, at Obeng Square, 66 Artillery Regiment, Ho.

In a welcome address, the Commander of the 16 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Selorm Kwesi Amengor, described WASSA as a cherished military tradition that embodies unity, shared heritage, and enduring camaraderie among soldiers. He noted that the celebration also symbolised the strong bond between the Brigade and communities within its area of responsibility.Highlighting the Brigade’s achievements, Brigadier General Amengor explained that the formation was established as part of the Ghana Army’s strategic restructuring to address contemporary security challenges. Despite being a young formation, he said the Brigade had embraced its mandate with determination and professionalism, recording significant milestones within a short period.

He expressed gratitude to the Military High Command for its guidance and support, and commended the Ghana Artillery Officers Association, the Old Gunners Association, regional and traditional authorities, sponsors, and civilian partners for their continued cooperation. He further praised the officers, soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff of the Brigade for their discipline and dedication, describing them as the foundation of its early successes.The Brigade Commander reiterated his vision of building a well-trained and highly motivated artillery formation capable of delivering precise and responsive fire support to the Ghana Army. He disclosed that the Brigade had successfully conducted its maiden Artillery Young Officers’ Course and that plans were far advanced to introduce a Special-to-Arm Promotion Examination for Lieutenants and Captains to further enhance professional competence among junior officers.

In his address as Guest of Honour, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, praised the Brigade for standing out through its cohesion, professionalism, and strong operational commitment during its formative phase. He reaffirmed that the Artillery remains a critical combat arm of the Ghana Army and praised officers and soldiers for their contributions to training, internal security operations, ceremonial duties, and support to sister security agencies.Major General Gbetanu outlined his vision of transforming the Ghana Army into a modern, agile, and technology-driven force underpinned by rigorous training, merit-based career development, and improved personnel welfare. He urged all personnel to mentally prepare for intensified training in the coming year. He further announced ongoing efforts to renovate facilities earmarked for the 16 Artillery Brigade Headquarters and to resolve real estate arrangements for the 67 and 68 Artillery Regiments.

Additionally, he revealed that government had approved the establishment of a new military unit at Dambai in the Oti Region, with construction scheduled to commence in January 2026. According to him, the project would enhance operational posture in the region and, upon completion, relieve the 66 Artillery Regiment of its current internal security responsibilities in the Oti Region.The COAS expressed appreciation to families, spouses, civil development partners, the Supreme Cannons Band, caterers, and the organising committee for their contributions to the success of the celebration. He encouraged officers and soldiers to remain united, disciplined, and committed to excellence as the Brigade continues to grow.

The ceremony culminated in lively cultural displays, music, and warm social engagement among personnel and guests, underscoring the unity and camaraderie at the heart of the WASSA tradition.

The event brought together the Chief of the Army Staff, the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, senior military officers serving and retired, members of the Ghana Artillery Officers Association, the Volta Regional Security Council, traditional authorities, civilian partners, and families, among others.