Ghana and Rwanda unveil monuments honoring 1994 genocide victims and Ghanaian peacekeepers

The monuments, constructed by the government of Rwanda, were unveiled on July 6, 2026, by Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Rwanda's Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja. The ministers also laid wreaths for the over one million lives lost. Ablakwa stated that the monuments recognize the bravery and sacrifice of Ghanaian peacekeepers who served under the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda UNAMIR.

He commended Rwanda for constructing these symbols of appreciation for the Ghana Armed Forces' efforts to protect Rwandan lives, particularly those led by Major General Henry Kwami Anyidoho, who remained when other international forces withdrew. Ablakwa also praised the decision of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings' administration to keep Ghanaian troops in Rwanda during the genocide. He noted that Major General Anyidoho had previously received Rwanda's highest national award for bravery from President Paul Kagame.

Ablakwa expressed hope that the monuments would serve as a lasting reminder to reject hatred and division.