The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has expressed its deepest condolences over the 2025–2026 Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise, which tragically resulted in the deaths of six recruits, with several others injured and receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.
Minister George Opare Addo extended his sympathies to the affected families and friends after receiving statements and reports from the Ghana Armed Forces.
“The attention of the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has been drawn to reports and subsequent press releases from the Ghana Armed Forces on the tragic stampede that has claimed six (6) young Ghanaians, with many others injured, in the process of seeking recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces,” he said.
The ministry acknowledged the courage and aspirations of these young people, noting that their desire to serve the nation with honour and dedication is commendable. Their passing, the ministry stated, is not only a loss to their families but to the entire country.
“We believe the recruitment aligns with measures to mitigate the unemployment situation among the youth in the country, which is of paramount concern to the Government of Ghana and the Ministry,” the statement added.
The ministry also promised to work closely with the Ghana Armed Forces and other relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“We expect that the report of the investigations would provide clear recommendations and safeguards to ensure such accidents do not reoccur.”
Reaffirming its commitment to youth welfare, the ministry emphasized that future recruitment and empowerment initiatives will prioritize safety.
“The safety, dignity, and empowerment of the Ghanaian youth remain at the heart of our mandate, and situations such as this should not be allowed to undermine our collective resolve to supporting the development and empowerment of the youth of our dear nation.”