By Hannah Dadzie
A flag raising ceremony to climax the 79th UN Day celebrations has been held in Accra. The Day serves as a reminder of the international community’s shared responsibility to promote peace, security, and development. The theme for this year’s celebration, “Working Together Towards Peace and Sustainable Development in Ghana for Present and Future Generations,” underlines Ghana’s commitment to fostering peace ahead of the general election. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong stressed that peace is a non-negotiable commodity and called for unity during this critical period, urging Ghanaians to prioritize peace before, during, and after the elections.
In a colourful and symbolic event, the UN and Ghana Flags were hoisted to commemorate the 79th UN Day. It marked a celebration of the enduring partnership between the UN and Ghana, with a particular focus on the promotion of peace, security, and sustainable development. The event took place against the backdrop of Ghana’s commitment to international cooperation and the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at fostering a prosperous future for all. Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong praised the UN’s role in promoting peace, security, and human rights worldwide, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to address global challenges such as climate change, economic inequalities, and conflict resolution. Mr Ampratwum-Sarpong reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to supporting the UN’s vision for a more peaceful and sustainable world.
“The relentless efforts of the UN have provided relief and hope to millions worldwide.Over the years, Ghana has consistently shown leadership on the global stage, championing peace, inclusivity, and sustainable development. Our collaboration with the UN and other development partners reflects our shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for everyone. The UN Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the immense work that remains in ensuring peace and sustainable development.” The Deputy Minister noted
Mr Ampratwum-Sarpong said conflicts and humanitarian crises continue to pose threats to international peace, security, and sustainable development. Consequently, Ghana would like to use this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, and to urge all sides involved in conflicts to seek peaceful settlement.
Country Representative of the United Nation Population Fund, UNFPA, Dr. Wilfred Ochan highlighted the role of the UN in fostering inclusive growth and supporting Ghana’s efforts in achieving sustainable development. He urged Ghanaians to maintain the nation’s reputation as a beacon of peace.
“The pathway to a successful and sustainable future lies in strengthened collaboration and solidarity. As we approach the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections, we must all remember that peace is the glue that binds this great nation together, and it was therefore essential now more than ever to reaffirm our commitments to peace and democracy. The UN in Ghana will continue to support the Ghana in achieving its development priorities,” Dr Ochan.
A Representative of the Ghana United Nations Students and Youth Association (GUNSA), Nana Adwoa Adomako Boamah called for the need for Ghanaians to keep working together towards peace and sustainable development in the country for present and future generations.
“If we wait solely for our institutions, our assemblies and our government to act, we may not live to see the change we want. We have a collective responsibility as a youth to begin in whatever small ways we
can. From our tweets on social media to our comments on the trotro, let us not incite conflict but foster peace and unity, in this crucial year. May we continually be reminded of the immense power we encapsulate as youth which can either be used towards good or evil. I urge our leaders to not only invest in our well-being and development but to also include us in policy and decision-making spaces, ” Madam Adwoa Adomako.
The ceremony ended with a photo exhibition highlighting Ghana’s contributions to global peace and development. It was also preceded by a Peace Walk on October 19, to drum home the need for all citizen to prioritize peace and unity this election period.
