Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Anita Asmah
Major General Anita Asmah, Head of Mission and Force Commander
United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF)
Early Life and Education:
Major General Anita Asmah was born and raised in the Republic of Ghana, where she began her journey towards becoming a highly respected leader in the military and peacekeeping sectors. She holds Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Law degrees from the University of Ghana, demonstrating her strong academic foundation and intellectual acumen. She is fluent in both English and French, which has greatly facilitated her ability to engage in multilateral peace operations with colleagues from around the world. Her educational background and military training have set the stage for an illustrious career in peacekeeping and international relations.
Military Career:
Major General Asmah brings an impressive 31 years of leadership and command experience within the Ghana Armed Forces and in United Nations peacekeeping missions. Throughout her career, she has exemplified exceptional dedication to peace and security, and her leadership has left an indelible mark in both national and international military circles. Her most recent position was as the Director General of the Department of Defence Civilian Establishment in the Ghanaian Armed Forces, where she was responsible for overseeing critical administrative and operational functions. Prior to this, Major General Asmah served as the Deputy Force Commander of UNDOF from 2021 to 2023, where she contributed significantly to the mission’s success in the Golan Heights, particularly in monitoring and upholding the ceasefire between Israel and Syria. Major General Asmah’s prior experience in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) (2015-2016) and (2012-2013) as a Staff Officer, and as a Military Observer with the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC) (2003-2004), has further solidified her expertise in peacekeeping operations, conflict resolution, and multilateral diplomacy. In addition to these significant roles, Major General Asmah has held several other senior-level positions within the Ghanaian Armed Forces. She served as Director of Education, Deputy Military Secretary, and Course Director at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, where she helped shape the future of Page 13 of 14 Ghana’s peacekeepers and developed comprehensive training programs aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of peace operations worldwide.
Leadership and Commitment to Peace:
Throughout her career, Major General Asmah has demonstrated exceptional leadership, characterized by a deep sense of responsibility and a strong commitment to ensuring the success of peacekeeping missions. She is widely respected for her ability to navigate complex, high-pressure environments with poise and professionalism, always prioritizing the well-being of the people and communities under her care. Her leadership style is grounded in collaboration, inclusiveness, and a focus on building sustainable peace. Major General Asmah is particularly passionate about ensuring that women have a greater role in peace processes and conflict resolution. As a staunch advocate for gender equality, she has worked to create environments where the voices of women and marginalized groups are heard and respected in peace negotiations and operations. On 11 Dec 24, Major General Asmah was appointed by UNSG as the Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF).