Ghana Army Southern Command closes Ex Starlight Stretch III in Nkwanta South

The Ghana Army's Southern Command has officially concluded Exercise Starlight Stretch III 2026 in Nkwanta South, Oti Region, marking the end of a major military training exercise aimed at bolstering personnel readiness and response to security threats. On Friday, August 28, 2026, Chief of the Army Staff Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu officially closed the exercise at Nkwanta South.

Speaking on behalf of the COAS, Chief Staff Officer Brigadier General Kwesi Ayima highlighted how the training activities had sharpened participants' operational skills and improved their deployment readiness. Brigadier General Ayima urged troops to apply the lessons learned to future operations, commending the support received from the Ghana Army, sister security agencies, and civil institutions.

General Officer Commanding Southern Command Brigadier General Edward Awaribey also praised the troops for their commitment and professionalism throughout the demanding training program. The exercise, he noted, exposed personnel to realistic operational challenges, reinforcing the importance of teamwork, interoperability, and leadership.

Nkwanta South's Municipal Chief Executive, Joseph Awal Antwi, described the exercise as timely and significant, particularly for enhancing security within the municipality and fostering collaboration between security agencies and the local community. Antwi expressed gratitude to the Ghana Armed Forces for selecting Nkwanta South as the exercise host.

The successful completion of Exercise Starlight Stretch III is anticipated to further bolster the preparedness and operational capabilities of participating personnel.