Defence Minister Launches 2026 Poppy Appeal, Calls For Support For Veterans

Dr. Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Defence, has officially launched the 2026 Poppy Appeal, urging Ghanaians to demonstrate their gratitude towards veterans. Speaking at the VAG Club House on October 2, 2026, Dr. Adjei emphasized that the Poppy Appeal should be viewed as a national gesture of appreciation for those who served, sacrificed, and endured for Ghana. He highlighted that the poppy symbolizes remembrance, sacrifice, service, and gratitude, representing the profound impact of wartime experiences.

The significance of the 2026 appeal lies in the dwindling number of pre-independence veterans, with only a few remaining. These veterans serve as a living link between Ghana's colonial military history, its path to independence, and the present-day Ghana Armed Forces. Dr. Adjei recounted the challenging circumstances faced by Ghanaian soldiers during the Burma campaign of World War II and stressed the importance of ensuring the remaining veterans live with dignity.

The funds raised through the appeal will primarily support healthcare, medication, welfare services, and infrastructure development via the Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG). Dr. Adjei appealed to various sectors of society, including corporate Ghana, financial institutions, traditional leaders, Members of Parliament, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and individual citizens, to contribute to the cause.

The Executive Director of VAG, Brigadier General Seidu Mumuni Adams (Rtd), further emphasized the need for additional support to establish district offices for veterans and their families. Currently, VAG operates in 10 regions with 72 districts, yet it lacks the necessary infrastructure to fully serve this important demographic.