…highlights Govt’s commitment to developing military, personnel as 28 graduate SOC
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Force, President Dr Irfaan Ali, has underscored his government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the Guyana Defence Force and its personnel and this, he said, is demonstrated in the new Headquarters Building that will be constructed at the GDF’s Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown.
The head of state made these remarks on Wednesday at the Commissioning Parade for the Stand Officers Course 55 (SOC 55), where he presented the Instruments of Commission to the class of 28 newly minted officers including one member of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, two from the Belize Defence Force, six from the Guyana Police Force, and 18 from the GDF.
“I’ve directed the Chief of Defence Staff [Brigadier Omar Khan] to initiate the comprehensive design and tender process for a new Defence Headquarters Building. This strategic investment will not only provide our dedicated men and women in uniform with the modern and functional workplace but also serve as a tangible symbol of our unwavering commitment to national security and our unwavering dedication to the brave individuals who protect our freedoms,” President Ali stated.
Commander-in-Chief President Dr Irfaan Ali and heads of the various Disciplined Forces with the 28 newly-graduated officers
The tender invitation was issued back in August for the ‘Construction of New Defence Headquarter Building & Rehabilitation to Office Spaces – Base Camp Ayanganna BC (A).’ The deadline for submission was August 29, 2024, however, it is unclear whether the contract was awarded.
President Ali’s pronouncement on the new Defence Headquarter Building came as he highlighted the massive investments his government has made over the years to develop the GDF’s infrastructure. In 2021, some $339 million was invested to upgrade military bases and facilities. This was followed by $480 million in 2022, over $1 billion in 2023, and a staggering $1.8 million in 2024.
These investments, according to the Commander-in-Chief, “…[reflects] our commitment to building a resilient and robust military infrastructure. One that could withstand the test of time, one that could adapt the evolving needs and one that serves as a symbol of our nation’s resolve.”
Training and equipping
In addition to the force’s infrastructure, the Head of State outlined the efforts made in training and equipping the military personnel.
“We invested in the education and skill development of these ranks, ensuring they possess the expertise and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, adapt to evolving threats and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of our nation. We made investments in state-of-the-art modern technologies, equipping our Forces with the necessary tools to confront threats, effectively responding to crisis and contribute to the broader national agenda,” he stated.
In 2021, Government allocated $314 million to enhance military personnel training. During that time, the GDF saw upgrades to its training facilities and was able to seek and accept more collaborative training that same them benefitting from regional and international opportunities thus ensuring the ranks are equipped to operate in a globalised and interconnected world.
That investment was followed by a further $350 million in 2022, $355 million in 2023 and $400 million in 2024, demonstrating the Ali-led Administration’s unwavering dedication to building a “well-trained and capable” Force that is not only well-prepared to deal with traditional war fair but also prepared to engage in the complexities of peace-building, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Moreover, only last week, the Guyana Government signed a US$16 million contract with United States-based Bell Textron Inc. for the supply of two advanced rotary wing aircraft for the GDF. By the end of this year, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government would have spent almost $32 billion on investments in capital assets for the GDF since assuming office in 2020.
According to the Commander-in-Chief, these investments have not been in vain as there has been remarkable transformation within Guyana’s military with marked increase in professionalism, a heightened sense of purpose and a deep commitment to serving the nation.
He went onto outline that the development of the nation and the security of its people are intricately linked. “We understand that a stable and prosperous nation is a secure nation, therefore, we’re committed to leveraging our resources to drive economic growth improve the lives of our citizens and create a more equitable society. This requires a strong and capable military – a military that is not only prepared to defend our borders but also to contribute to nation-building efforts,” the Guyanese Leader noted.
Recognise the unique challenges that these volatile, uncertain, complexed and ambitious times bring, President Ali committed to building a strong and diverse military that is ready and capable to defend the sovereignty of this land and protect the lives and livelihood of its people.
“We’re committed to maintaining our sovereignty, safe guarding our national interest and building a future where our nation thrives,” he stated.
To this end, the Commander-in-Chief charged the newly commissioned officers to demonstrate courage, dedication and professionalism – qualities that have been the hallmark of the Defence Force. (G8)
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