As Ghana marked its 63rd independence anniversary on Friday, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), hailed the country’s contribution to global and continental peace efforts.

Ghanaian peacekeepers serving under AMISOM in Mogadishu held a ceremony to celebrate the country’s independence anniversary. Present were senior officials from AMISOM and the UN mission in Somalia.

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Madeira, saluted Ghana’s long commitment to global peacekeeping, which he noted embodies the aspirations of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah.

“Ghanaian men and women have been participating in peacekeeping since the 1960s, participating in operations that stretched from the Sinai to the African continent,” said Ambassador Madeira.

In Somalia, Ghana is also supporting African Union-led efforts to restore peace and stability. Ghana has deployed police and military personnel under AMISOM, while several Ghanaians work in the UN Mission.

“I salute your hard work and dedication to the work of the African Union and AMISOM and your contribution to the peace process in Somalia. Your efforts and sacrifices will never be in vain,” added Ambassador Madeira.

The UN Secretary-General’s representative to Somalia, James Swan, saluted Ghana for contributing to global peace and paid tribute to Ghanaian luminaries, Kwame Nkrumah and former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan.

“Let’s remember our collective mandate to support Somalia to restore peace, security, and development,” said Mr. Swan.

Ghanaians serving in Somalia expressed joy at celebrating their country’s independence away from home.

“Today’s event has brought us together. I am excited at the chance to showcase our country’s rich tradition and culture,” said Sergeant Florence Cobbina Yakubu.