Ghana calls for global action against hatred at Rwanda genocide commemoration

Accra, Ghana – The 32nd anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda was marked in Ghana's capital with a solemn ceremony and a powerful call for international cooperation to combat hatred and division. The event underscored the enduring lessons of the 1994 genocide and the need for vigilance against extremism.

A significant moment of the commemoration was the unveiling of a memorial dedicated to the victims of the genocide and to the Ghanaian peacekeepers who served with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR). These Ghanaian soldiers notably remained in the country to protect civilians even after many foreign troops withdrew, demonstrating remarkable courage and commitment.

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The lessons of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis remained a stark reminder that intolerance, hatred, discrimination and division, when left unchecked, could have devastating consequences for humanity.

Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, urged global governments and citizens to champion peace, defend human dignity, and reject all forms of extremism. He emphasized that the genocide serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that unchecked intolerance, hatred, discrimination, and division can unleash upon humanity. The minister stressed that remembrance should fuel a collective resolve to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.

Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Rwanda's Minister of Justice and Attorney General, addressed the gathering, noting that remembrance is crucial not only for honoring the deceased but also for educating future generations about the dangers of hatred and intolerance. He highlighted Rwanda's inspiring journey of recovery, national reconciliation, and socio-economic transformation, offering valuable lessons for Africa and the world on unity and accountability. The minister also praised the resilience of the Rwandan people and the sacrifices of Ghanaian peacekeepers like the late Major General Henry Kwami Anyidoho.

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Remembrance was not only about honouring those who perished but also about educating future generations on the dangers of hatred, division and intolerance.