The donation is part of a broader initiative to support countries that contribute troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions and to promote greater inclusion of women in such operations.

The body armor, specifically tailored for women, is expected to address longstanding challenges faced by female soldiers who have had to adapt to equipment designed primarily for men. 

Gender equality in security 

The Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, Rolf Olson, who made the presentation at the Burma Camp today (August 20), said the gesture was a reflection of the US commitment to Ghana’s peacekeeping efforts and to the broader agenda of gender equality in security.

He praised Ghana for consistently ranking among the top 10 troop-contributing countries to UN missions, noting that its soldiers ,both men and women , had earned respect for their professionalism, discipline and resilience in complex theatres of operation.

“Every day, Ghanaian peacekeepers serve on the frontlines of global security, often in places far from home, where danger and uncertainty are part of daily life,” he said.

“This donation is not just about equipment, it is about ensuring that every soldier, regardless of gender, has the protection they deserve while serving humanity. Women bring unique perspectives and skills to peacekeeping, and when they are fully equipped, the missions become stronger and more effective,” he added.

Mr Olson recalled the recent recognition of two Ghanaian female peacekeepers who received top UN military honors in Abyei in 2024 and 2025, describing their achievements as a testament to the value of women in international peace operations. 

He said the U.S. was proud to partner with Ghana through initiatives such as the Women’s Body Armor Pilot Project, launched in 2023 with the Netherlands, Zambia and Ghana itself.

“The world is facing unprecedented challenges from terrorism and armed conflict to humanitarian crises  and peacekeepers are the bridge between despair and hope. As Ghana’s women in uniform take on greater responsibilities in these missions, they must be adequately protected. This body armor is designed specifically for them, to give them the confidence, safety, and mobility they need to carry out their duties effectively,” Mr Olson said. 

He further emphasised that security and prosperity are closely linked, and that by safeguarding those who safeguard peace, the U.S. and Ghana were jointly investing in a more stable future. 

Appreciation

The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Gbentanu, who received the donation on behalf of the Ghana Armed Forces, described it as timely and significant. 

He said it demonstrated the recognition of the sacrifices made by female personnel and the commitment of partners to safeguard their welfare as they serve under challenging conditions.

“This is the first time ever that women’s body armor is being donated to the GAF and it comes at a time when the roles and responsibilities of our women in uniform are expanding rapidly, both at home and in peacekeeping missions abroad,” he said.

He explained that female personnel had often faced difficulties working with equipment designed for men, which sometimes limited their comfort and effectiveness on the field. 

“For years, our women have had to make do with protective gear that did not fully consider their physiology. Yet they never relented in carrying out their duties. This support, therefore, sends a strong signal that their sacrifices are recognised and that their operational effectiveness matters just as much as that of their male colleagues,” Major General Gbentanu said. 

He expressed his gratitude to the U.S. government and its partners for prioritising gender inclusion in global security. 

He assured that the GAF would put the donated equipment to the best use, and that the training already provided to soldiers would ensure proper handling and maintenance.