Lt. Col. Richard Otchere Mintah, affectionately known as “RO” among his peers or “RM” within his church community, has a story rooted in dedication and perseverance. He was born on 10th February 1979 in Begoro, a serene town in the Eastern Region of Ghana. From an early age, he displayed a keen interest in learning and a drive for excellence. His formal education began at Mankranso Local Authority Primary School and continued at Oda Camp R/C Primary School, eventually leading to the completion of his Junior Secondary School (JSS) education at 1st Signal Regiment JSS in Burma Camp.

Richard’s educational journey took a significant turn when he gained admission to Koforidua Secondary Technical School, affectionately known as “Mmerima Mma.” Here, he pursued elective science, an area of study that laid the groundwork for his later accomplishments in science and technology. He completed his secondary education in 1996, leaving with a strong foundation to pursue higher academic challenges.

Academic Achievements and Advanced Studies

Following his secondary education, Richard enrolled at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in 2002. His academic pursuits, however, did not stop there. Recognizing the need for specialization and practical application of science, he pursued a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Medical Physics, with a focus on Diagnostic Radiology, at the Graduate School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences at the University of Ghana, Legon.

In addition to his expertise in Medical Physics, Lt. Col. Mintah expanded his academic horizon by earning a Master’s degree in Defence and International Politics from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). His thirst for knowledge and professional growth continues, as he is currently a PhD candidate in Health Policy and Management at the University of Ghana Business School.

Professional Development and Certifications

Lt. Col. Mintah’s professional growth has been marked by numerous certifications and specialized training programs. His technical proficiency is exemplified by his certification in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) troubleshooting from the Philips Healthcare Academy in the Netherlands. Beyond this technical expertise, he has also completed several professional courses that reflect his versatility and commitment to excellence.

Among these courses are Crisis Management, Maritime Security Management, International Peace Support Operations, and Protection of Civilians. He has also received training in Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems Awareness and holds a certificate in Hospital Administration (Project Management Module). These certifications highlight his ability to navigate both the technical and administrative aspects of his profession with ease and competence.

Distinguished Military Career

Lt. Col. Mintah’s military career began on 3rd September 2004, when he was commissioned into the Medical Corps of the Ghana Armed Forces as part of Regular Career Course 44 and Short Service Commission and Special Duties 43. Since then, he has served with distinction, taking on numerous roles that demonstrate his leadership, expertise, and commitment to service.

He has completed several military courses that align with his rank and responsibilities, including the Public and Non-Public Accounts Course at the Forces Pay Office, the Fire Officers’ Course at Defence MT School, and both Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Teshie. These training programs have equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in his military duties.

Lt. Col. Mintah’s dedication to international peacekeeping efforts is evident in his participation in various United Nations missions. He served as the VIP Platoon Commander during the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) in 2005, a Platoon Commander in the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in 2006, and Personnel Administrator Charlie at MINURSO in Western Sahara in 2011. In 2014, he took on the role of Operations Officer in the United Nations and African Union Mission in Darfur, Sudan (UNAMID). These missions underscore his commitment to global peace and security.

Domestically, Lt. Col. Mintah has held key administrative roles in the military medical sector, including serving as the Administrative Officer (Medical) at the 37 Military Hospital. He currently holds the same position at the Ghana Armed Forces Critical Care and Emergency Hospital, where his leadership and expertise continue to make a significant impact.

Healthcare Contributions and Research Interests

Lt. Col. Mintah’s contributions to healthcare extend beyond his administrative roles. He has a deep research interest in Diagnostic Radiology and Hospital Emergency Response Systems. His vision is to advance medical physics within the Ghana Armed Forces Medical Services (GAFMS) by establishing a center of excellence for medical imaging and radiotherapy.

In addition, he is passionate about improving emergency response systems in Ghana. He aspires to set up an emergency center of excellence at the Ghana Armed Forces Critical Care and Emergency Hospital. His dedication to healthcare innovation is driven by his desire to ensure the health and safety of the millions of people who receive medical treatment in Ghana every year.

Spiritual Leadership and Ministry

Beyond his military and professional life, Lt. Col. Mintah is deeply committed to his faith. He holds a certificate in Biblical Studies from Perez University College, reflecting his dedication to theological education. His journey in Christian ministry began in the Church of Pentecost, where he served as an ordained Elder and eventually rose to the position of Presiding Elder.

In 2013, he transitioned to Jesus Christ Palace, where his spiritual leadership continued to flourish. On 18th August 2018, he was ordained as a Reverend Minister at the Trinity Praise Christian Centre De’Bekhorah Temple in Takoradi. Currently, he serves as the Resident Minister of Trinity Praise De’ Megaleio Temple in Nungua, Accra. His ministry is characterized by a commitment to spiritual growth, service to God, and the upliftment of his community.

Personal Life and Values

Lt. Col. Mintah’s personal life is a testament to his values of family, dedication, and selflessness. He is married to Mrs. Ivy Spiro Yaa Mintah, and their union is blessed with four children: Nanadwoa Ofosua Otchere-Mintah, Awuradwoa Amoakoa Otchere-Mintah, Obaapanyin Akosua Mintah, and Obaasima Akosua Mintah. His family serves as a source of inspiration and support in all his endeavors.

At his core, Lt. Col. Mintah is driven by a passion for helping others, inspiring humanity, and demonstrating selfless leadership. His hobbies, which include surfing the internet and admiring nature, reflect his appreciation for knowledge and the beauty of the world around him.

Through his multifaceted career, spiritual leadership, and personal life, Lt. Col. Richard Otchere Mintah continues to make a profound impact on his country, Ghana, and the lives of those he serves. His journey is a remarkable example of dedication, excellence, and service to both God and humanity.