KAIPTC bids farewell to Major Gen Addo Gyane, welcomes Air Cdre Akrong

The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) held a ceremony on May 8. This event marked the end of Major General Richard Addo Gyane's tenure as Commandant. He is retiring after nearly 40 years in the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

During the ceremony, Maj Gen Gyane handed over command to Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong. This transition marks a new era for the Centre under Akrong’s leadership.

In his farewell address, Maj Gen Gyane reflected on his career. He began in 1985 at the Ghana Military Academy as the only Flight Cadet. Later, he joined the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps. He became the first EME officer to reach Brigadier General and Major General ranks.

His career included significant appointments, such as Director General of Plans, Research and Development (PR&D). He was also the first non-infantry Army officer to hold this role. His leadership helped establish TRADOC and new units within GAF.

Appointed KAIPTC Commandant in November 2022, Maj Gen Gyane oversaw recovery from COVID-19. Under his guidance, the Centre made major improvements in infrastructure and operations. These included renovating the Women Youth Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI) and expanding digital learning capabilities.

He also worked on securing financial sustainability for KAIPTC. This involved commercializing selected courses and expanding academic programs. A new Youth Unit was added to WPSI, which is now a full department.

Maj Gen Gyane thanked donor partners, staff, and his family for their support. He especially acknowledged his wife as his “pillar of strength.” He encouraged youth to embrace integrity and hard work in leadership roles.

He praised Air Commodore Akrong as a visionary leader. Gyane urged him to promote inclusive leadership at KAIPTC. “Though I leave in body, my spirit will remain with this Centre,” he said.

Major General Gyane leaves KAIPTC with a legacy of innovation and commitment to service.