Ghanaian troops in DR Congo mourn Kofi Annan

The Ghana contingent serving with the United Nations Peace Support Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), has held a solemn memorial ceremony in honour of the late former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan on Monday. 

The ceremony led by the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Bernard Baba Pantoah was for the troops to show appreciation for the service of Mr Annan towards global peace.

Troops of the Battalion and Staff Officers of MONUSCO participated in the ceremony at the Ghanaian Battalion (GHANBATT) Headquarters in Kinshasa. 

Prayers were said for the soul of the former UN Secretary General and the Last Post was sounded. This was followed by the observation of a minute of silence.

In a tribute, the Contingent Commander and the Commander of Western Sector, MONUSCO, Brigadier General Emmanuel Kotia observed, “Mr Annan exhibited humility, good humour, courtesy and charm throughout his public life and as a global leader for peace, security and sustainable development.

"He displayed enormous wisdom and strength, and was a role model to aspiring young men and women leaders globally”.

The ceremony ended with the sounding of the Reveille after which the UN, Ghana and the GHANBATT flags hoisted at half-mast in honour of Mr Annan.  

Flags will continue to fly at half-mast until Sunday as a sign of respect to the departed Mr Annan, a noble Statesman of Ghana.