PHOTO: Ghana Marks 78th International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Office in Accra, has commemorated the 78th International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers with a solemn Flag-Raising and Wreath-Laying Ceremony held at the Forecourt of the State House on 29 May 2026. The event was observed under the theme, “Invest in Peace.”

Addressing participants, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for Assin North, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson, stressed that peace requires deliberate commitment, strategic investment, and collective action. He noted that amid growing global challenges such as armed conflicts, terrorism, political instability, and climate-related security threats, United Nations peacekeeping operations continue to play a vital role in maintaining international peace and security.

Hon. Quayson reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to global peace through its continued participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions. He also highlighted the important contribution of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in enhancing peace support operations across the continent. He called for stronger collaboration between the United Nations, the African Union, and other international partners, emphasizing that investing in peace is ultimately an investment in the future of humanity.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Ghana, Mr. Zia Choudhury, paid tribute to peacekeepers serving in some of the world’s most difficult and dangerous environments. He acknowledged the current global security challenges and resource constraints but noted that UN peacekeeping remains one of the international community’s most effective mechanisms for protecting civilians, supporting political processes, and maintaining stability.

Mr. Choudhury called on Member States to provide sustained political and financial support for peacekeeping operations, stating that investing in peace is far more cost-effective than addressing the devastating consequences of war. He further commended Ghana’s longstanding contribution to international peace and security, revealing that the country currently has more than 1,900 military and police personnel deployed across eight UN peacekeeping missions. He also praised Ghana’s leadership in promoting the participation of women in peacekeeping operations and honoured peacekeepers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The ceremony brought together members of the Diplomatic Corps, government officials, traditional leaders, representatives of the security services, students, and members of the media to honour the sacrifices of peacekeepers and reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to global peace and security.