Ghana Partners US In Medical Exercise
By Juliet Buntuguh & Jamila Akweley Okertchiri

The United States and the Ghana Armed Forces have launched a ten-day medical assistance training exercise for military medical personnel in Accra.
The exercise, which is being facilitated by the Medical Field Logistics Assistance Group (MEDFLAG), is aimed at promoting interoperability in addition to increasing medical capacity in the Ghanaian army.
At the opening ceremony, the leader of the US team, Lt. Col. Boyd explained that MEDFLAG creates a platform for the two armies to build and expand their medical capabilities, as well as foster mutually-beneficial relationships.
He stressed that the exercise was also to build and expand the deplorable medical capability of the Ghana Armed Forces as well as enhance the readiness of both countries’ medical personnel through a variety of disciplines including classroom instructions, three humanitarian civil assistance events in local areas, and a scenario demonstration.
Lt. Col Boyd noted that the annual bilateral exercise will facilitate the exchange of medical information and techniques within the two armies.
“We are going to learn how to exchange and use information,” he added.
He expressed hope that both armies will leave the exercise stronger and more experienced than before as they provide medical, dental and veterinary services to civilians.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. P. A Blay, stated at the ceremony that, apart from the numerous benefits the exercise will bring, “more importantly, it will foster the community relations of the Ghana Armed Forces through the humanitarian civil assistance.”
He therefore asked participants to put all their energies and time into the exercise as this would not only benefit them but also help extend support to less privileged civilians who avail themselves for the Humanitarian Assistance Programme.
“We expect each and every participant to have learned enough to improve his or her field of expertise after the exercise,” Lt Gen. Blay said in conclusion.