Sixty-One Peacekeepers, Including Five Ghanaians, Killed in 2023

Sixty-one peacekeepers lost their lives during United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations in 2023, the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Charles Abani, disclosed. Among the deceased were five Ghanaians.

The fallen peacekeepers will be posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the UN Headquarters in New York, United States. The Ghanaian peacekeepers to be honored are Staff Sergeant Mensah Alex Ameyaw of UNIFIL, Warrant Officer Class II Ibrahim Abubakari of UNIFIL, Lance Corporal Emmanuel Adjei Nii Addo of UNESFA, Michael Sowah of UNMISS, and Jeduah Mahama Abudu of UNSOM.

Mr. Abani made this announcement during the 76th International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers Flag-raising and Wreath-laying Ceremony in Accra. He highlighted the evolution of UN Peacekeeping over the past 75 years into a crucial tool for conflict resolution and the promotion of international peace and security. Since 1948, more than two million peacekeepers have dedicated themselves to this noble cause, guiding communities from conflict to peace.

Currently, over 76,000 peacekeepers from more than 120 countries are deployed in 11 global operations, working to foster peace and stability for millions affected by conflict. “UN peacekeeping operations have significantly contributed to regional and international stability by protecting civilians, strengthening institutions, empowering communities, enhancing women's and youths' governance participation, and supporting humanitarian efforts,” Mr. Abani stated.

He noted that at least 25 peacekeeping operations have been conducted across Africa, beginning with the United Nations Operation in Congo from 1960-1964. “From the late 1980s to the present, the number of UN Peacekeeping operations in Africa has increased, achieving varying degrees of success. As of March 2024, there are four peacekeeping operations in Africa,” he added.

This year’s theme, “Fit for the Future: Building Better Together,” underscores UN Peacekeeping’s role in transitioning countries from conflict to peace and emphasizes the organization’s adaptation to future challenges.