Ghana and Rwanda have jointly unveiled two monuments at Burma Camp in Accra in honour of Ghanaian peacekeepers who served during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The ceremony, held on Monday, brought together officials from both countries, including Ghanaian politician Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Rwanda’s Minister of Justice, Dr Emmanuel Ugirashebuja.
The monuments are dedicated to Ghanaian soldiers who served under the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) and played a key role in protecting civilians during the genocide, which claimed over one million lives within 100 days.
Speaking at the event, Hon Ablakwa described the occasion as a profound honour and a moment of national pride, noting the sacrifices made by Ghanaian troops who remained in Rwanda when several other international forces withdrew.
He highlighted the leadership of Major General Henry Kwami Anyidoho, under whom Ghanaian peacekeepers continued to protect civilians at various safe locations, including Amahoro Stadium. Major General Anyidoho was later awarded Rwanda’s highest national honour for bravery.
The Government of Rwanda said the monuments represent its gratitude to Ghana for the courage and commitment of its peacekeepers during one of the darkest periods in modern history.
Officials noted that Ghana’s decision to maintain its troop presence helped save many lives at a time when the international response was widely criticised as insufficient.
The ceremony also reflected growing diplomatic relations between Ghana and Rwanda, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity and regional cooperation.
Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of remembering the victims of the genocide and ensuring that such atrocities are never repeated.
The monuments at Burma Camp are expected to serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by Ghanaian peacekeepers and the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis.
