By News Desk
A fresh debate is brewing over Ghana’s military recruitment age limit, with growing calls for an upward review to reflect modern security demands.
Hon. Raphael Worlasi Dogbey, Assembly Member for the Klefe Electoral Area and member of the Ho Central Constituency Communications Team of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has added his voice to the discussion.
Speaking on GBC Volta Star Radio’s morning show on Thursday, October 9, 2025, with Tony Mark-Boye, Hon. Dogbey emphasized that contemporary military service places a premium on intelligence rather than sheer physical strength.
“The work of the military today is about intelligence and not physical strength. The era of blind emphasis on physical strength is over. There have been people who were denied entry into the military in Ghana because of age but were later enlisted in other jurisdictions after leaving the country,” he said.
Hon. Dogbey’s comments echo sentiments shared by Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, who has been vocal about the need to review Ghana’s military recruitment policy.
Hon. George had earlier argued that global military trends support flexible recruitment ages, allowing skilled and experienced individuals to serve irrespective of age.
“I honestly believe it is time for our beloved nation to re-examine the maximum age for enlistment into our military services. There are people in their 30s who are physically fit and sound enough to serve their nation. We must not deny them this opportunity simply because of their age,” he said.
He further proposed that Ghana could consider setting an upper limit of 35 years, similar to practices in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, to attract skilled professionals into the armed forces.
The ongoing debate has ignited public interest, with many Ghanaians urging a comprehensive review of the military’s recruitment criteria. Supporters believe that adjusting the age limit could help the Ghana Armed Forces tap into a broader pool of experienced and intelligent personnel, thereby strengthening its operational effectiveness.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are expected to weigh the balance between maintaining military discipline and embracing evolving global recruitment standards, a decision that could redefine the future of Ghana’s armed forces.
