The Ghana Battalion (GHANBATT) serving with the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), on Tuesday marked Ghana’s 61st Independence Anniversary with a flag raising Ceremony in Kinshasha.

The ceremony took place at the Headquarters of Ghana's Battalion (INCAL Complex), which is under the command of Lieutenant Colonel B.B Pantoah.

The Guest of Honour for the was Brigadier General (Dr) Emmanuel W. Kotia, Commander of MONUSCO Western Sector and Ghana’s Contingent Commander.

The theme for this year’s celebration was “Ghana beyond Aid.”   

The Commanding Officer and dignitaries paying compliments to the National Colours

In his address, General Kotia admonished GHANBATT troops to remain professional at all times and continue to raise the flag of Ghana high.

He urged troops to remain worthy ambassadors of Ghana in the DRC. He further encouraged all to eschew acts that would bring the name of Ghana into disrepute.

General Kotia reflected on the contributions, struggles and sacrifices made by the forefathers led by Dr Kwame Nkrumah towards Ghana’s independence and encouraged all to rekindle the spirit of patriotism and work hard to make Ghana strong and truly independent.

The colourful ceremony was graced b Ghana’s Ambassador-designate to the DRC, Joseph Kwaku Antwi.

Hearty cheers from the troops on parade

Other dignitaries present were the Commanding Officer MONUSCO GHANBATT 14, Lieutenant Colonel B.B Pantoah, personnel from other countries serving with MONUSCO, Ghanaians residing in the DRC and friends of GHANBATT in the DRC.