CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF VISITS GHANA ARMED FORCES COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE
The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, on 23 October 2025, paid an official visit to the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), where he delivered a lecture to students of Course 47 on the topic “The Ghana Navy by 2030.”
The lecture focused on the strategic mission, innovation and transformation of the Ghana Navy as part of Ghana’s broader national security architecture. Rear Admiral Bessing emphasised that the Navy’s mission extends beyond coastal defence — it includes protecting Ghana’s maritime resources, combating piracy, illegal fishing, and smuggling, while ensuring the safety of vital sea routes that sustain trade and development.
He highlighted that the Ghana Navy continues to maintain peace and stability in the Gulf of Guinea through effective partnerships and regional collaborations. The Navy, he noted, is embracing innovative power to enhance its operational capabilities, leveraging modern technologies to strengthen surveillance, improve logistics and optimize maritime patrols.
Rear Admiral Bessing also mentioned the Navy’s collaboration with the innovative “Ship-in-a-Box” training system, which provides advanced digital simulation to sharpen the skills of naval officers and improve real-time response at sea. He stated that the Navy’s focus on optimised presence and patrols will enable more efficient monitoring of Ghana’s Exclusive Economic Zone and maritime boundaries.
Quoting Sir Walter Raleigh, he said, “Whosoever commands the sea commands the trade; whosoever commands the trade of the world commands the riches of the world.” He also drew on the words of John F. Kennedy, who once remarked, “Control of the seas means security, control of the skies means victory.” These references, he explained, underscore the indispensable link between maritime strength, economic growth and national security.
Looking ahead to 2030, Rear Admiral Bessing outlined the Navy’s vision for transformation — one anchored on fleet mordenisation, capacity building, technological innovation and international cooperation. He emphasised the Navy’s commitment to becoming a more agile, efficient and mission-ready maritime force capable of addressing both traditional and emerging threats.
The Acting Commandant of the College, Brigadier General Wonje, commended the Chief of Naval Staff for his insightful lecture and visionary leadership. He noted that the address had broadened the perspectives of students of Course 47 on the strategic importance of maritime security and innovation in defence planning.
As a gesture of appreciation, both senior officers exchanged gifts, symbolising the strong bond between the Ghana Navy and the GAFCSC. The visit ended on a cordial note with a group photograph and informal interactions between Rear Admiral Bessing and the students of Course 47, leaving all participants inspired by his vision for the Ghana Navy.
Story by Mrs. Yvonne Danquah Henkel