By Hannah Dadzie
Ghana has honoured the courage and sacrifice of UN peacekeepers with solemn ceremonies and renewed calls for stronger global partnerships in peacekeeping.
At a flag-raising, wreath-laying, and tree-planting ceremony in Accra, Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu emphasized the need for member states must act in a strong and unified manner to navigate modern threats.
He said this requires tangible engagement to ensure peacekeeping missions receive necessary political support, adequate resources, and clear mandates to thrive in complex environments.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu paid glowing tribute to the extraordinary bravery of peacekeepers, who work to build peace and restore hope in some of the world’s most challenging conflict zones and saluted those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Today, as we honour our fallen and recognise the bravery, professionalism and commitment of our Forces gathered here, we are reminded that it is only through a shared vision of human dignity that we can uphold the worth of every individual and build a more secure world.” The Minister said.
This year’s International UN Peacekeepers Day is a tribute to the extraordinary courage and unwavering dedication of peacekeepers deployed to some of the world’s most volatile conflict zones. The solemn occasion also honoured the memory of the more than 4,400 peacekeepers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace.
Observed under the theme “The Future of Peacekeeping: Strengthening Partnership and Multilateralism in Ghana and Beyond,” emphasized the importance of collaboration in sustaining global peace. The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu highlighted the increasing complexities faced by UN peace operations and called for strengthened partnerships and multilateralism to address future challenges. He emphasized Ghana’s unwavering commitment to international peace and security.
“Let us, therefore, recommit to collective action to fully resource missions, equip them with robust mandates, and stand united with the brave women and men who risk their lives to protect civilians to ensure that peacekeeping operations can thrive even in the most challenging environment,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu stated.
As one of the top contributors to UN missions, Ghana stands as a significant example of global solidarity, with its peacekeepers demonstrating that lasting stability is achievable even in difficult circumstances. A poignant moment during the ceremony was the remembrance of 57 peacekeepers who lost their lives in 2024, including two Ghanaian soldiers, Sergeant Evans Kyere and Warrant Officer II David Kwame Amankwah, both of whom served with the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei. The United Nations will posthumously honour them with the prestigious Dag Hammarskjöld Medals at a ceremony in New York later today.
Interim UN Resident Coordinator, who is the UNICEF Country Representative, Osama Makkawi Khogali, praised Ghana’s long-standing contribution to UN peace operations, noting the country’s position as the 7th largest troop-contributing nation out of 122.
“Ghana has long stood as a steadfast pillar of UN peacekeeping efforts, with a distinguished legacy dating back to the early 1960s. Today, we proudly recognize Ghana’s remarkable contributions, a testament to its enduring commitment to global peace and security.” Mr Makkawi Khogali
The ceremony was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security service personnel, and students. Participants echoed a shared commitment to the values of peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation.
As global conflicts grow more complex, Ghana’s continued dedication to peacekeeping remains a beacon of hope, reinforcing the country’s position as a reliable partner in building a more secure world.
