“Soldiers will not only go to war” – Mahama announces expanded role in emergency operations for 48 Engineer Regiment

President John Mahama announced that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) will be deployed for a broader range of emergency operations and national development projects, aiming to better utilize the country's resources. He highlighted the military's involvement in the Agbogbloshie waste evacuation as proof of what can be accomplished through coordinated efforts across government.

The evacuation took place on September 18, when the regiment from the 48 Engineer Regiment provided operational and engineering support. The Ministry of Finance, alongside the District Assemblies Common Fund and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, provided funding and leadership. The GAF's primary role was to assist in the evacuation process.

President Mahama emphasized that the soldiers would not only engage in combat but also carry out emergency operations, deeming them invaluable for national development. He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff and military personnel, emphasizing the crucial role of the Armed Forces. Additionally, he revealed that the Ministry of Roads and Highways had enlisted private road contractors to contribute equipment to the exercise, aiding the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) machinery.

The coordinated effort aimed to address the longstanding challenge of the Agbogbloshie site's waste accumulation and its subsequent redevelopment through the proposed Agbogloshie Urban Land Renewal Project.