The Government of Ghana is set to name two new military barracks under construction at Dambai and Ajumako Asiam after two illustrious generals of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The facilities, to be named “Fort Anyidoho” and “Erskine Barracks”, will honour the legacy of these iconic commanders. This was announced by the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) William Agyapong, during a luncheon for past commandants and international alumni at the Fletcher Mess on 2 July 2026.
The event was part of activities marking the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC).
Fort Anyidoho is to be named after Maj Gen Henry Kwami Anyidoho, an exceptional Ghanaian military leader, international peacekeeper, and respected statesman whose career exemplifies courage, professionalism, and service to humanity. He is highly recognised for enhancing Ghana’s global reputation in international peace and security.
Notably, he served as Deputy Force Commander during the United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR) from 1993 to 1995, one of the most challenging operations in modern history. Amid extreme violence and humanitarian catastrophe, Maj Gen Anyidoho demonstrated remarkable resilience and bravery in coordinating efforts to protect and evacuate civilians during the Rwandan Genocide.
His actions earned him national honours, including the Distinguished Service Order for Gallantry from the Government of Ghana on 17 March 2000. He was also decorated by the Government of Rwanda with the National Order for Bravery (Indengabaganizi).
Erskine Barracks will be named after the late Lt Gen Emmanuel Alexander Erskine, a celebrated Ghanaian military officer and pioneer of international peacekeeping. He played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s reputation as a reliable contributor to global security. He served in various capacities, including Chief of Staff and Deputy Force Commander, before becoming the first-ever Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) from 1978 to 1981.
His exemplary service led to his appointment as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Representative for Matters Relating to UN Peacekeeping Operations in the Middle East from February 1981 to May 1986. These achievements brought immense prestige to Ghana, establishing the nation as a leading contributor to global missions. Today, Ghanaian troops continue to serve with distinction around the world, building upon the foundations laid by pioneers like Gen Erskine.
Similarly, Gen Erskine was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (Military Division) in 1978 and the Member of the Star of Ghana (Military Division) in April 1979 by the Government of Ghana. The Government of Lebanon also bestowed upon him its highest national honour, the National Order of the Cedar, for his monumental service as UNIFIL’s inaugural Force Commander.
Naming these installations after these distinguished leaders will yield enduring institutional benefits. The move also aligns with long-standing military traditions of commemoration, strengthens institutional heritage, and instils values essential to professional soldiering.
