By: Hannah Dadzie
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Thomas Mbomba has called for strategies to collectively promote peace and security to shape the future of UN Peacekeeping, as Ghana hosts Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference in December this year.
He said, the changing nature of modern conflict, complicated by terrorists’ threat, pose a challenge to the International Community.
Mr Mbomba was speaking at the 75th UN Peacekeeping Day and wreath laying ceremony at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.
He said, it is important to deliberate on challenges and opportunities facing UN Peacekeeping Operations in war torn zones, that have led to the death of personnel in the line of duty.
“It is a momentous time for Ghana, to be entrusted with the privilege of hosting the upcoming Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference. This significant event will provide a platform to share experiences, exchange best practices, and strengthen partnerships in our collective pursuit of sustainable peace” Mr Mbomba said.
Civilian and uniformed personnel in peacekeeping missions support ceasefires, prevent and respond to violence, investigate human rights violations and abuses, and help build peace, recovery, and development in many conflict-affected countries. There is no doubt that lives are saved and changed by their presence.
International UN Day of Peacekeepers has been set aside to honour Peacekeepers who have lost their lives in pursuit of global peace. Since the country deployed its first formed contingent to Congo in 1960, more than 147 Ghanaian Service men and women have died during various missions.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Thomas Mbomba expressed condolences to the families of fallen peacekeepers.
He said Ghana recognizes their indispensable role and also support efforts by the UN to increase women’s participation in peacekeeping.
“For 75 years, UN peacekeepers have played a vital role in saving lives, protecting civilians, and rebuilding communities torn apart by conflict. These brave men and women have faced immense challenges and danger while striving to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Their unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and dedication deserve our utmost admiration and gratitude” Mr Mbomba stated.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Kofi Amankwa Manu commended all peace keepers for their support and called for requisite tools to foster a culture of peace in communities. He expressed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to global peace and security.
“On this momentous occasion, let us also reflect on the progress achieved through United Nations peacekeeping over the past 75 years. Let us stand together in solidarity, pledging to support peacekeeping operations, provide the necessary resources, and empower our peacekeepers with the tools they need to carry out their vital missions. Furthermore, we must recognize that peace begins with each one of us. It is not a responsibility solely entrusted to peacekeepers but a collective” Mr Amankwa Manu said.
UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Charles Abani said the ultimate price of Peacekeepers cannot be monetized, and therefore pleaded for peace to reign in all member states as peace begins with individuals.
“The tangible difference made in the lives of millions of people caught up in conflict by peacekeeping is central to discussions around peacekeeping because the service and sacrifice made by peacekeepers cannot be monetized. Some have paid the ultimate price by giving their lives in the cause of peace under the UN flag. The legacy of these peacekeepers should inspire us to take action, recognizing the fact that “peace begins with you, me and us” Mr Abani indicated.
There was symbolic tree planting in honor of the fallen heroes. May the unwavering resilience of these honourable people inspire all to take action, build bridges, and strive for a world where peace and prosperity prevail.
