US Embassy and Ghana Armed Forces Wrap Medical Readiness Exercise

The U.S. Embassy and Ghana Armed Forces have concluded a Medical Readiness Exercise (MEDREX) in Accra. This training event ran from April 20 to May 8. Approximately 25 U.S. service members participated. They worked alongside Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) medical professionals. The exercise took place at the 37th Military Hospital. It formed part of the broader African Lion 26 exercise series. This marks a continued tradition since 2014. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a one-year interruption to these drills. U.S. participants included experts from Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre. They also came from Dental Health Activity–Rheinland Pfalz and the North Dakota National Guard. The medical professionals shared vital knowledge. They collaboratively provided patient care. This effort strengthens medical readiness across many specialities. The U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) managed the exercise. It prepares U.S. military health professionals. They learn to provide care outside normal hospital settings. This also improves working with African allies. U.S. personnel brought expertise in obstetrics. They also shared skills in gynaecology, trauma, and general surgery. Critical and intensive care knowledge was exchanged. Anaesthesia and emergency care were also covered. Dental services were part of the training too. Colonel Scot Tebo, Command Surgeon for SETAF-AF, highlighted the benefits. He stated, “MEDREX gives our medical professionals the opportunity to train in operational environments and exchange knowledge with our Ghanaian counterparts.” He added, “Working together improves how we deliver care in resource-limited conditions and prepares our teams to support forces during large-scale operations.” Chargé d’Affaires Rolf Olson emphasized the partnership. He said, “The United States values our enduring partnership with Ghana and its armed forces.” He continued, “This medical readiness exercise exemplifies our shared commitment to strengthening interoperability and ensuring our armed forces are prepared to address regional security challenges together.” Mr. Olson also noted, “The collaboration between U.S. and Ghanaian medical professionals not only enhances readiness, but also deepens the bonds between our two nations.” African Lion is a major annual exercise. U.S. Africa Command organizes it. It gathers partner nations across Africa. The goal is building readiness and strengthening partnerships. It also improves responses to shared security challenges. This year, 50 GAF soldiers are in Morocco. They are participating in African Lion 26 there. Earlier this year, GAF medical professionals tested their skills. They joined counterparts from Italy and Liberia. This event was the SETAF-AF Best Medic Competition. It took place at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy. The competition challenged 24 medical personnel. They showcased physical stamina and technical skills. These were tested under simulated combat conditions. The collaboration between U.S. and Ghanaian forces is ongoing. It focuses on improving collective security. Medical preparedness is a key component of this. The exercises contribute to regional stability. They ensure forces are ready for diverse scenarios.