In a symbolic transition of leadership, Major General Richard Addo Gyane has officially handed over command of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) to Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong. The ceremony marked both a celebration of Maj Gen Gyane’s groundbreaking military career and the beginning of a new chapter for the Centre.
Delivering his farewell address, Maj Gen Gyane reflected on a distinguished journey that began in 1985 at the Ghana Military Academy, where he stood out as the only Flight Cadet in his cohort. After transitioning to the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps, he made history as the first EME officer in Ghana to attain the ranks of Brigadier General and later, Major General.
Throughout his career, Maj Gen Gyane held several key positions, including Director General of Plans, Research and Development—becoming the first non-infantry officer to assume the role. His strategic vision contributed significantly to the creation of TRADOC, Forward Operating Bases, and other new units within the Ghana Armed Forces.
Appointed KAIPTC Commandant in November 2022, he led the Centre’s post-COVID-19 revitalization. His tenure saw infrastructural upgrades, including the renovation of the Women Youth Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI), expansion of e-learning platforms, and the construction of a new main gate. He also implemented bold reforms to enhance financial sustainability, such as course commercialization, academic programme expansion, and deeper donor engagement.
Under his leadership, the WYPSI evolved into a fully-fledged department—the Women, Peace and Security Institute (WPSI)—with the addition of a new Youth Unit. Plans for a peace studies undergraduate school and a KAIPTC Hotel are already in motion.
Maj Gen Gyane expressed heartfelt thanks to the Centre’s Board, staff, donor partners, and his family—paying special tribute to his wife, whom he called his “pillar of strength.” He encouraged young people to lead with integrity, courage, and diligence.
He praised his successor, Air Commodore Akrong, as a forward-thinking leader and urged him to continue promoting inclusive governance at KAIPTC.
“Though I leave KAIPTC physically, my spirit and prayers will always remain with the Centre I have come to cherish,” he said, pledging continued support for its mission.
Maj Gen Gyane departs with a legacy defined by innovation, institutional growth, and dedicated service to peace and development.
Source; Citinewsroom
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