The Commanding Officer (CO) of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) Ghana Battalion 12 (GHANBATT 12), Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Godfred Asampong, has been inducted into office on Sunday 27 October 2024.

Speaking at the ceremony, which took place at the Rubkona Hall at GHANBATT Headquarters in Bentiu, South Sudan, the Acting Head of Field Office (A/HoFO), Madam Stella Abayomi, emphasised the need for peacekeepers to act professionally to prevent a resurgence of conflict. 

She said GHANBATT’s Area of Responsibility was prone to water-related challenges, stressing the importance of collaborating with local communities and other UN forces to foster progress in the region.

Madam Abayomi reiterated the UN’s zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual exploitation and abuse, urging GHANBATT to maintain a clean record. She also expressed confidence in Lt Col Asampong’s leadership to bring lasting peace, unity, and stability to South Sudan.

Lt Col Asampong, in his address, encouraged his troops to remain resilient and expressed gratitude for their dedication. He stressed the importance of a clear mission grounded in core values such as troop welfare, respect for local communities and the UN, mutual respect among personnel, initiative, discipline, and professionalism.

He also underscored the significance of collaboration within a multinational environment and called for continued support and loyalty similar to that extended to his predecessor. Additionally, he acknowledged the collective spirit fostered through a recent three-day fasting initiative aimed at strengthening the battalion’s resolveLt Col Asampong thanked the Sector Unity Commander, Brigadier General William Ryarasa, and all attendees for their immense support during this pivotal induction, affirming his commitment to leading GHANBATT 12 towards success in their mission.