What Ghana Army Generals Showed In Rwanda

In Rwanda President Paul Kageme set a celebratory tone this December, reemphasizing how much can be achieved when African countries work together. While Paul Kagame makes the case for an interconnected Africa, it is remarkable to note the role that Ghana Army generals played in Rwanda demonstrating that Africans can indeed be the most reliable partners even in the most difficult times. At the heart of the 1994 crisis, The UN Security Council in New York was contemplating the decision to close down its peace mission in Rwanda in view of the deteriorating security situation. They voted to withdraw and send home well-equipped troops along with many soldiers from other countries. However a contingent of about 450 soldiers from Ghana ignored the orders from the UN Security Council to withdraw from Rwanda. To them it was inconceivable to turn our backs on Rwanda. Where others fled or were withdrawn by their governments, leaving Rwandans to their fate, the over 450 mostly young Ghanaian soldiers remained in Rwanda and continued to do the right. Some deployed to stadiums in Rwanda and while others stationed at Kigali’s airport, turning them into safe zones for refugees fleeing the fighting. The Ghanaian battalion saved countless lives under the most difficult circumstances. They demonstrated the courage that so many others absolutely were unable to sustain in the face of such a horrible catastrophe. Now why is this important? The kind act of bravery by Ghana’s soldiers in Rwanda shows that fellow Africans on the continent remain the best and most reliable partners that African countries can have. Ghana’s involvement in peacekeeping dates back to the early 1960s when it contributed troops to the United Nations Operation in the Congo. Since then, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to international peace and security by participating in numerous peacekeeping missions on the African continent. Ghanaian peacekeepers have been deployed to various conflict zones, providing support in post-conflict reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and maintaining peace and security. They often serve in challenging environments, where their role involves a range of activities, including monitoring ceasefires, protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and supporting the implementation of peace agreements. One other notable example of Ghana’s involvement in peacekeeping is its contribution to the United Nations Interim in the Middle East with the aims to maintain peace and prevent hostilities between the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Israel Defense Forces. Ghana’s engagement in peacekeeping goes beyond military contributions. The country has also been involved in training and capacity-building initiatives, sharing its expertise with other African nations to enhance their peacekeeping capabilities. This collaborative approach reflects Ghana’s commitment to fostering a culture of peace and security in Africa.