Defense Minister-Designate Pledges Improved Peacekeeping Allowances for Ghanaian Soldiers

Defence Minister-designate, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, has vowed to address the disparities in United Nations peacekeeping allowances for Ghanaian soldiers.

During his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Dr. Omane Boamah acknowledged that Ghanaian peacekeepers currently earn $35 daily, which is significantly lower than what their African counterparts receive.

“Our current remuneration system requires urgent attention,” he stated in response to concerns raised by Hon. Jerry Shaibu about discrepancies in UN reimbursement rates.

UN data presented during the vetting process revealed that Ghanaian peacekeepers earn approximately $435 monthly, compared to $600 for Nigerians and $756 for Kenyans.

Dr. Omane Boamah proposed adopting the wet lease system, which would allow Ghana to optimize UN reimbursement rates to secure additional resources for peacekeeping operations. He also promised to present Parliament with comprehensive reforms aimed at improving the welfare of Ghanaian peacekeepers.

“With your approval, I will return to Parliament to provide detailed plans for enhancing the welfare of our peacekeepers,” he assured the committee.