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The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has denied allegations circulating in the media suggesting the exploitation of Ghanaian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
In a press release issued on January 25, 2026, by the Department of Public Relations at General Headquarters, Burma Camp, the GAF described the claims as misleading and untrue. The publication alleged that Ghanaian troops had been restricted from shopping outside their camps and were compelled to pay for their own airfares when proceeding on leave to Ghana.
According to the GAF, given the volatile security situation within UNIFIL’s area of operations, UNIFIL Force Headquarters has facilitated the establishment of eleven shops operated by local Lebanese vendors within two Ghana Battalion (GHANBATT) locations, with an additional post exchange shop run by the battalion itself.
The statement explained that this arrangement is not unique to Ghanaian troops, noting that several other battalions within UNIFIL operate under similar systems. The setup, the GAF said, provides peacekeepers with multiple shopping options and does not impose any restriction on their welfare.
Addressing claims that troops are required to pay for their own airfares during leave, the GAF stressed that the allegation is false. It reaffirmed that the Government of Ghana continues to fully fund airfares for all Ghana Armed Forces peacekeepers, including those serving in UNIFIL.
The Ghana Armed Forces cautioned that the spread of misinformation could undermine troop morale and discipline and potentially tarnish the country’s image internationally.
The GAF therefore appealed to media practitioners to crosscheck facts thoroughly before publication, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and the welfare of Ghanaian peacekeepers deployed on international missions.
