Ghana and China are significantly deepening their defence cooperation, marked by China's renewed commitment to supporting Ghana's military. This commitment includes military training, infrastructure development, equipment support, and humanitarian collaboration. The expanded partnership was highlighted during the 99th anniversary celebration of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Accra.
This strengthened defence relationship aligns with a broader push for closer bilateral engagement between Ghana and China. It encompasses military education and institutional capacity building for the Ghana Armed Forces. The collaboration reflects a long-standing partnership built on mutual trust and practical cooperation between the two nations.
The deepening defence ties occur within a context of robust economic engagement between Ghana and China. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached GHS 189.7 billion (US$14.1 billion) in 2025. This figure represents a substantial 19.3 percent increase over the previous year, demonstrating growing economic interdependence. This economic growth underpins the strategic importance of the defence partnership.
Mr. Cong Song, China’s Ambassador to Ghana, affirmed China's dedication to this expanded cooperation. He stated that defence cooperation remains a key pillar of relations between the two countries. Ambassador Song emphasized that political mutual trust continues to deepen, describing China and Ghana as good friends, partners, and brothers. He also noted the broad prospects for cooperation in various fields.
Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, Ghana's Deputy Minister for Defence, underscored Ghana's appreciation for the partnership. He described China's support as an important contributor to the modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces. Mr. Genfi highlighted that cooperation has expanded through military infrastructure, professional training, military education, and logistics support. He cited the Ministry of Defence Headquarters as a lasting testament to this enduring partnership.
In 2025, more than nine military infrastructure projects were completed with Chinese support. These projects included facilities at Shai Hills, Nutekpor, Akyem Akroso, and Bundase. Ghana is also collaborating with China on facilities for the proposed National College of Defence Studies. Parliament has already approved legislation establishing the National Defence University of Ghana, further solidifying this educational cooperation.
The partnership extends beyond military hardware and training. The Chinese naval hospital ship, Peace Ark, is expected to visit Ghana later this year. This visit will provide medical services and humanitarian assistance, demonstrating the broader scope of the collaboration. Colonel Dou Yan, Chinese Defence Attaché to Ghana, confirmed that military cooperation now includes personnel training, equipment support, maritime cooperation, infrastructure development, and United Nations peacekeeping efforts.
This enhanced cooperation is crucial for Ghana's security and regional stability. It provides the Ghana Armed Forces with modern resources and training to address emerging security challenges in the West African sub-region. The continued strengthening of these ties will likely lead to further joint initiatives and increased military capabilities for Ghana. Decision-makers will monitor how this defence partnership translates into tangible security outcomes and economic benefits for Ghana.