Accra, Ghana, has been chosen as the site for the upcoming UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference, marking the first time this event will take place on the African continent. Dominic Nitiwul, Ghana’s Defense Minister, revealed this significant decision during a recent press briefing held on Sunday, November 3, 2023.
Minister Nitiwul highlighted the importance of this global conference scheduled for December 5 and 6, underscoring Ghana’s increasing role in international peacekeeping efforts. Ghana, currently leading the UN Special Committee on Peacekeeping, is poised to host Foreign and Defense Ministers, Heads of International Organizations, Academia, Civil Society Organizations, and Journalists from around the world.
Expected to draw 80 to 100 member states and over 600 registered delegates, the conference will focus on crucial themes such as the involvement of women in peacekeeping, civilian protection, mental health support for peacekeepers, safety measures, and strategic communication.
Minister Nitiwul emphasized Ghana’s achievement in surpassing UN targets for women’s inclusion in peacekeeping operations and expressed eagerness to spearhead discussions on this pivotal issue.
The two-day event will commence with a welcome reception at the Accra International Conference Centre, hosting side meetings on “women in peacekeeping” and “environmental aspects of peacekeeping” in collaboration with Sweden and the US, respectively.
On the second day, the Vice President of Ghana will address the main conference, followed by panel discussions on the identified themes. Additionally, a digital exhibition showcasing Africa’s role in the UN Peacekeeping Enterprise will be a key highlight.
Minister Nitiwul emphasized Ghana’s commitment to utilizing the conference as a platform to foster both bilateral and multilateral partnerships. He concluded by emphasizing the conference’s critical importance, not just for Ghana but for the entire African continent.
Source: CitiNewsroom