{
  "id": 19158744,
  "title": "VAG calls for gov’t support to improve welfare of retired military personnel",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/09/vag-calls-for-govt-support-to-improve-welfare-of-retired-military",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-11-09T13:09:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "GBC Ghana",
    "slug": "gbc-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.gbcghanaonline.com/general/military-personnel/2026/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Ghana Veterans Administration (VAG) has implored the government to bolster financial backing for retired military personnel, highlighting the difficulties they face in accessing healthcare and receiving sufficient welfare benefits. Ex-Warrant Officer Segbefia Bright, the Public Relations Officer of the VAG, made this request during an interview on GTV Breakfast Show on November 9, 2026, just prior to this year's Remembrance Day observance. Segbefia emphasized that life post-military service remains challenging for many veterans, especially those grappling with age-related ailments and the expense of healthcare. He lamented that despite the administration's entitlement to funding under Act 844 of 2012, it has yet to receive adequate financial support. The last government subvention of GH¢36,000, which Segbefia deemed insufficient for over 24,000 members, was received years ago. He urged the VAG to be incorporated in the national budget to guarantee consistent funding for its welfare initiatives. Additionally, Segbefia revealed that the VAG was mobilizing funds during this year's Remembrance Day, scheduled for November 11, to aid its 72 districts nationwide. This annual commemoration, held on November 11, pays tribute to military personnel who perished in the First and Second World Wars, alongside other conflicts. The red poppy, a symbol worn during the event, signifies remembrance and encourages dialogue as an alternative to violence in conflict resolution. Funds raised through the poppy appeal also aid veterans and security personnel injured while on duty. Segbefia clarified that the VAG is now recognized as the Veterans Administration, Ghana, since the enactment of Act 844 in 2012. Membership is granted only to former military members honorably discharged from the Ghana Armed Forces, excluding those dismissed for disciplinary reasons. The administration currently operates in 10 regions and 72 districts, encompassing more than 24,000 veterans. He expressed gratitude to the public for their support in last year's fundraising appeal, which enabled the administration to acquire an ambulance for its clinic. The facility, frequented by civilians, is staffed by medical personnel from the 37 Military Hospital, providing healthcare services to patients, with specialized cases referred to the hospital. This year's Remembrance Day events are anticipated to include President John Dramani Mahama, who will lay a wreath on behalf of the nation. Segbefia also advocated for increased emphasis on teaching history in schools, asserting that educating youth about the significance of Remembrance Day is crucial for preserving historical knowledge.",
  "summary": "By Joycelyn Tseyiboe The Veterans Administration, Ghana (VAG), has called on the government to increase financial support for retired military personnel, citing challenges with healthcare delivery and inadequate welfare provisions. The Public Relations Officer of the Veterans Administration, Ghana, Ex-Warrant Officer Segbefia Bright, made the appeal during an interview on GTV Breakfast Show on…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}