He made the suggestion during a visit to the Headquarters Central Command at Idris Barracks, Kumasi, on Tuesday 12 August 2025 and explained the roll of the institute in training soldiers to protect children during armed conflicts, especially in peacekeeping missions. Major General Omane-Agyekum (Rtd) noted that Ghana, as a major contributor to United Nations peacekeeping missions, would benefit from incorporating the Vancouver Principles, adding that it would enhance operational effectiveness and uphold human rights. Brigadier General Ogaja welcomed the proposal and stated that Central Command would integrate child-protection measures into its training. He stressed that soldiers must be trained to protect both women and children during operations. 
The Country Representative of the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security Major General William Omane-Agyekum (Rtd), has called for the adoption of the Vancouver Principles in Ghana Army training programmes.
Adopted by United Nations member states in 2017, the 17 Vancouver Principles guide military and police forces in identifying, preventing and responding to the use of children in conflict. They emphasise early warning, readiness and adherence to international humanitarian law.
VISITS
Aug 13 2025
