UN@80: Ablakwa urges international community to emulate Ghana’s peace legacy
The Minister of Foreign, Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has urged the international community to study Ghana’s long-standing commitment to peace, compassion, and multilateral cooperation, saying the country’s record offers lessons for the world as the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary.
Speaking at a flag-raising ceremony and photo exhibition in Accra, Mr Ablakwa said Ghana’s history of promoting peace without instigating war should serve as a moral compass for the global community.
“If all countries were to emulate Ghana’s example, we would indeed live in a world without conflict, strife, and genocide,” he noted.
The weeklong UN@80 activities climaxed with the ceremony, which also paid tribute to Ghanaian peacekeepers who have served in conflict zones including Rwanda, Lebanon, Somalia, and Sudan. Mr Ablakwa lauded their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to protecting human life.
“When others withdrew from Rwanda, Ghanaian troops stayed, not because we had superior weapons, but because we valued human life above all,” he said.
Highlighting the theme, UN@80: Ghana and the UN, Shared Responsibility for a Better Tomorrow, Mr Ablakwa described the UN as a beacon of hope and international cooperation, supporting Ghana’s development in healthcare, education, gender equality, and governance through agencies such as UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, FAO, and UNESCO.
UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, Zia Choudhury, commended Ghana’s leadership in peacekeeping, diplomacy, and advocacy for global reforms, echoing President John Mahama’s call at the UN General Assembly for greater African representation.
A student representative urged the world to renew its commitment to peace, unity, and shared humanity, emphasising youth leadership in driving innovation, advocacy, and sustainable development.
Accra’s UN@80 celebrations provided a platform for diplomats, officials, and citizens to reflect on the UN’s enduring commitment to peace, human rights, and sustainable development, and to reiterate Ghana and the UN’s shared pledge to collaborate for a safer, more equitable world.
