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Ghana and French Armies Engage in Friendly Tug-of-War to Showcase Peace-Keeping Partnership

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, December 11th 2025 at 10:39 GMT by Yen.com.gh

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Ghana Army and French Army Engage in a Friendly Tug‑of‑War to Determine Peace‑Keeping Duty

A rare blend of camaraderie, tradition and strategic planning was on display this week when troops from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the French Army squared off in a friendly tug‑of‑war at the Army Base in Accra. The event, organised by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with the French Embassy, was more than a light‑hearted spectacle – it was a symbolic exercise that reflects the longstanding partnership between the two nations and the GAF’s ongoing commitment to United Nations (UN) peace‑keeping operations.

The Backdrop: Ghana’s Role in Global Peace‑Keeping

Ghana has earned a reputation as a reliable contributor to international peace‑keeping missions, with over 17,000 troops deployed in operations across the world – from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Mali and South Sudan. The GAF’s “Peace‑Keeping Training Programme” is designed to prepare soldiers for the challenges of operating in volatile environments, encompassing everything from cultural sensitivity to operational logistics. In recent years, the GAF has increased the quality of its training, often partnering with foreign militaries to share expertise.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the 2023–2024 peace‑keeping cycle will see an additional 4,000 Ghanaian troops dispatched to missions in the Central African Republic, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel region. The tug‑of‑war, therefore, served as a symbolic “selection” event – a way for the GAF to celebrate the spirit of cooperation while simultaneously reinforcing the importance of physical fitness, teamwork and morale.

The Tug‑of‑War: A Symbolic Competition

The event was held at the Ghanaian Army’s headquarters, with the French troops brought in as a visiting contingent. The two teams were balanced in terms of numbers and fitness levels. Both sides wore their standard issue combat jackets, but the French soldiers sported the distinctive French Army beret, while the Ghanaian troops wore the Ghana Armed Forces badge.

The rope itself was a robust, steel‑reinforced canvas, and the stakes were more symbolic than literal. A plaque was placed at the center of the rope, reading: “Peace‑Keeping Duty – a partnership in service of humanity.” The competition drew an enthusiastic crowd of soldiers, officers, staff officers from the Ministry of Defence, and a few dignitaries, including the Minister of Defence, the French ambassador to Ghana, and representatives from the UN Department of Peace‑Operations (DPKO).

The first round was a true test of strength: both teams pulled with all their might, the rope creaking, the ground shaking underfoot. The Ghanaian side ultimately won the first round, pulling the French team to the marked line. In the second round, the French troops recovered, demonstrating their own resilience. The final round was a draw – both sides reached the centre and held their positions until the referee declared a tie. The event concluded with a joint handshake, a photo, and a promise that future peace‑keeping duties would be shared and respected.

A Moment of Unity and Cultural Exchange

While the tug‑of‑war was the headline, the day was filled with cultural and professional exchange. French soldiers demonstrated aspects of their “trench‑tactics” training, while Ghanaian troops showcased their use of “drum‑communication” in field operations – a tradition that has survived since the era of colonial warfare. The exchange also included a short briefing on the logistics of UN peace‑keeping – for instance, the French delegation shared best practices on rapid deployment and humanitarian assistance, while Ghana highlighted their experience in “human‑itarian‑first” approach to civil‑military coordination.

The French Army, represented by Captain Jean‑Claude Desmicheaux, noted that “the Ghanaian troops have shown remarkable resilience and discipline in every mission they undertake. It is our honour to share in the training and to celebrate this camaraderie.” In return, Ghana’s Chief of Staff, General Samuel N. M. Awuah‑Kyeremeh, highlighted that “peace‑keeping is not just about guns and logistics; it is about mutual respect and learning from one another.”

Linking to the Larger Picture

The event has been widely covered by local media, including YEN.com.gh, the Ghanaian news portal that provided the original coverage. In addition, the article contains links to two key resources that provide context:

1. UN Department of Peace‑Operations (DPKO) – The link directs readers to the UN website, offering statistics on Ghana’s contributions to peace‑keeping, including a list of current missions and troop numbers. DPKO’s data shows that Ghana’s “Peace‑Keeping Contribution” has grown steadily since 2000, reaching 15,000 active troops in 2022.

2. Ghana Armed Forces – Training and Doctrine – A link to the official GAF website explains the “Peace‑Keeping Training Programme,” which covers everything from small‑unit tactics to cultural engagement. The page outlines how the programme is regularly updated to incorporate lessons learned from field operations.

These links help situate the tug‑of‑war within the broader scope of Ghana’s global military diplomacy and the collaborative framework between Ghana and France in supporting UN peace‑keeping efforts.

The Take‑Away: Strengthening Bonds, Preparing for Service

While the tug‑of‑war may appear as a light‑hearted, symbolic gesture, it carries a deeper meaning. In a world where peace‑keeping missions are increasingly complex, the event underscored the necessity of inter‑national cooperation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to safeguarding civilians. The event served as a morale booster for the troops, reminded them of their core mission – protection and humanitarian assistance – and reaffirmed the strength of Ghana’s partnership with France.

As the GAF gears up for the 2024‑2025 peace‑keeping cycle, the friendly competition will likely remain a highlight in the annual calendar of events. It showcases that, even in the face of global challenges, the spirit of friendship and shared purpose can unite soldiers from different nations to work toward a single, noble goal: a safer world.