Accra, Nov. 30, GNA - Major-General Francis Mahama (rtd), Ghana's former Ambassador to Russia on Thursday commended the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for remaining focused even in the face of dramatic changes in global, political, social and technological environment, coupled with instability on the continent that continued to make heavy demands on its militaries.

"I am happy to note that in the face of these multifaceted challenges and demands, the Ghana Armed Forces continue to fulfil its increasingly expanding roles and responsibilities with clear focus and unbridled efficiency", he said.

Maj-Gen Mahama was speaking at the first ever thanksgiving and excellence awards ceremony of the GAF's Southern Command at Teshie, near Accra. The event was to reward professionalism, competence, commitment, industry, character and loyalty of units and individuals within the Command.

He observed that the dedicated efforts of the Armed Forces, particularly the Southern Command, in the areas of combating crime, resolving conflicts, managing crisis and providing people-oriented security had created a congenial atmosphere of peace and security in the country.

"Indeed, I have followed, with great delight and admiration, the continued positive posture, determination and resilience of this Command, and I must say emphatically that I am proud of your achievements."

He congratulated the award winners for their outstanding performance and urged them to remain humble and gentle in success and not to be tempted to seek the path of comfort nor wallow into depths of complacency, but to continue to set their sights on high.

The awards, which were in two categories saw some 16 soldiers and two civilian employees from the units under the Command each receiving a cash of five million cedis, a certificate of honour and souvenirs from Areeba for exemplary character and loyalty to the Command.

The second category was the Most Accomplished Unit Awards. The category saw the 66 Artillery regiment at Ho, the Second Infantry Battalion (2BN) and the 48 Engineers Regiment receiving a cash award of 50 million cedis, a trophy, certificates of honour and souvenirs from Areeba.

Scancom Ghana Limited, operators of the Areeba network, the Trust Bank Limited, Unique Trust Financial Services and Somovision, sponsored the awards ceremony.

Brig-Gen Emmanuel Okyere, General Officer Commanding the Southern Command, said the awards were intended to induce growth in the Command and to encourage hard work.