Ghana’s Ambassador to Norway, H.E. Abigail Kwashi, attended the Annual Act of Remembrance and wreath laying ceremony in Oslo on Sunday,10th November, 2024, at the invitation of the British Ambassador to Norway, H.E. Jan Thompson. This ceremony honours the sacrifices of soldiers, including Ghanaian servicemen and women, who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. It also commemorates the Armistice of 1918, which marked the end of World War I.
Ambassador Kwashi began the day by attending a Remembrance Day service at the St. Edmund’s Church in Oslo, where she joined others in remembering the fallen, and expressing gratitude for the freedoms they defended. Her participation symbolised Ghana’s commitment to peace and its dedication to preserving the memory of those who fought for freedom.
In a solemn ceremony, Ambassador Kwashi, alongside her colleague ambassadors and representatives from Commonwealth countries, including Pakistan, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and India, and Ireland participated in a unified act of laying wreaths to honour fallen soldiers from their respective nations. British Ambassador Jan Thompson represented King Charles III and the British Government at the event.
The ceremony was also attended by senior Norwegian defence officials, including Mr. Hans Christian Hveem Kjølseth, Norway’s State Secretary for Defence. Additionally, Norwegian veterans from the Royal Air Forces Association (Norway Branch), Navy Veterans’ Associations, and the Norwegian Veterans Association for International Operations were present, along with Defence Attachés from various diplomatic missions stationed in Oslo.
Ghana’s participation in Remembrance Day ceremonies underscores its significant contributions during both World Wars. Many Ghanaian soldiers served in the British West African Frontier Force, particularly in campaigns in East Africa and Burma (now Myanmar). By taking part in these commemorations, Ghana honours the legacy of Ghanaians who fought and died in the wars, while also highlighting the country’s role within the Commonwealth, and its commitment to global peace efforts.
