GHANA COMMEMORATES 79TH UNITED NATIONS DAY

The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, in his statement indicated that the theme for the celebration reinforced the nexus between peace and sustainability and emphasised the importance of ensuring that peace should prevail before, during, and after the upcoming general elections slated for 7th December, 2024. He further reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. He stressed the need for countries to forge bonds of peace and cooperation through diplomacy and dialogue . This will endanger lasting solutions to conflicts and foster an environment where sustainable development will thrive.

Delivering a speech on behalf of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative, Dr. Wilfred Ochan stated that the UN will continue to support Ghana work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also noted that the theme for the celebration reflected the steadfast dedication to the critical objectives of pursuing peace and sustainable development, not just only for the present generation, but also for the youth and generations yet unborn, the marginalised in society and the vulnerable. Commenting on the upcoming general elections in Ghana, Dr. Ochan pledged that the UN will continue to work with all stakeholders including the Electoral Commission, the National Peace Council, National Commission for Civic Education, political parties, security agencies and the media to ensure a peaceful and inclusive process before, during and after the elections. “As we approach the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections, we must all remember that peace is the glue that binds this great nation together”, he added.

A representative of the Ghana United Nations Students and Youth Association (GUNSA) Ms. Nana Adwoa Boamah, highlighted the significant role that the youth had played in addressing issues in their communities through peaceful approaches. Ms. Boamah urged the youth to always promote peace “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.” she stated. She also called on the nation’s leaders to invest not only in the well-being and development of the youth but also to ensure their inclusion in the policy and decision-making processes.

The Flag- raising ceremony was followed by a photo exhibition which was mounted by the Information Services Department (ISD) to showcase Ghana’s contribution to the United Nations and the various projects and contributions being made by the United Nations in Ghana. The ceremony was attended by government officials, officers from the security services, the United Nations Offices in Ghana, the Diplomatic Corps, students and the media.