By Pte Adade Nelson

The Ghana Armed Forces in collaboration with the Rwandan High Commission has unveiled a commemorative monument at Burma Camp, as part of activities marking the 32^nd Kwibuka commemoration on Wednesday 17 June 2026.

The ceremony, honoured the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda and celebrated the crucial and sacrificial role of the Ghanaian contingent as well as reaffirmed the existing relations between Ghana and Rwanda.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable (Hon) Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who was the Guest of Honour emphasised Ghana’s commitment to preserving the memory of the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide and honouring the extraordinary sacrifices of Ghanaian peacekeepers who served during one of the darkest periods in modern history. He noted that while many international forces withdrew from Rwanda at the height of the crisis, Ghanaian troops remained steadfast in their mission to protect civilians, demonstrating exceptional bravery, humanity, and dedication to peace.

Hon Ablakwa stressed that the commemoration should not merely be a remembrance of a tragic chapter in history but a renewed call to uphold the values of peace, unity, and human dignity. He commended Rwanda’s remarkable journey from devastation to stability and urged governments as well as citizens to remain vigilant against hatred, discrimination, and intolerance while reiterating Ghana’s enduring friendship and solidarity with Rwanda.

Reflecting on his deployment to Rwanda as Contingent Commander of the Ghana Battalion 1 under the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR), Major General (Rtd) Henry Kwami Anyidoho recounted the challenges faced by Ghanaian peacekeepers during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. He noted that despite the escalating violence and the withdrawal of several international forces, Ghanaian troops remained committed to their mandate of protecting innocent civilians. Their courage, discipline and unwavering sense of duty enabled them to provide refuge and assistance to thousands.

Major General Anyidoho paid tribute to the professionalism and sacrifice of the Ghanaian soldiers who risked their lives to save others and uphold the ideals of peacekeeping. He further urged future generations to learn from the lessons of Rwanda, stressing the need for vigilance against hatred and respect for human dignity.

Rwanda’s Minister for Justice, Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, reflected on the devastating impact of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, recalling how the country was left shattered by the loss of more than one million lives. He described the country’s journey as evidence that even in the aftermath of profound tragedy, nations can recover and prosper when guided by a shared commitment to peace, justice, and national unity.

The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, described the Kwibuka 32 commemoration as more than a remembrance of a tragic chapter in history. He said the monument stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of reconciliation. He also paid tribute to the Ghanaian peacekeepers who served under the UNAMIR, particularly those led by Maj Gen Anyidoho during the genocide. The COAS reaffirmed the Ghana Armed Forces’ commitment to international peacekeeping, regional stability, the values of humanity and service that continue to define its operations.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Rwandan High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Rosemary Mbabazi, UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, His Excellency Zia Choudhury, Commandant Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Maj Gen Jackson Wonje and President of National Defence University, Air Vice Marshall Felix Adom Asante and some Senior officers of the Ghana Armed Forces.