Holocaust Remembered In Accra

Ambassador Gilad exchanging pleasantries with dignitaries at the event

 

The International Day of the Remembrance of the Holocaust was observed on January 27, 2026 in Accra under the auspices of the embassies of Germany and Israel.

The solemn event brought together students, diplomats, religious leaders, United Nations (UN) officials, and civil society representatives for a moment of reflection.

The date has been set aside for remembering and honouring the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust. It is seen as a safeguard against the repetition of such horrors.

The discussions which constituted the cornerstone of the sitting drew attention to the troubling resurgence of anti-semitism and hate speech worldwide, and called for collective action to defend human rights, promote tolerance and uphold human dignity.

The event’s “Never Again” message served as a stark reminder of the dangers of hate and discrimination, emphasising the importance of education and remembrance.

Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, James Gyakye Quayson, shared a poignant reflection at the commemoration, drawing from his recent visit to Israel and the Holocaust Museum, describing the experience as a stark reminder of the “other side of humanity”.

Mr. Quayson recounted, “What I saw, what I observed, is the other side of humanity. It should not have happened to anybody, not even animals.”

He emphasised the importance of learning from the past to correct mistakes, and urged Ghanaians to focus on the good side of humanity. He also reflected on Ghana’s own experience with slavery and colonialism, questioning why people inflict harm on each other. “If you feel more superior than the next person, what is the benefit of it? Humanity should be sharing one another’s glory,” he said.

Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, highlighted the significance of commemorating the Holocaust, calling it “the most terrible man-made disaster in history”.

He stressed the need to preserve victims’ memories, especially since most are no longer alive.

The German Ambassador to Ghana, Frederik Landshoft, on his part, emphasised Germany’s commitment to speaking openly about its concerns, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza and developments in the West Bank, at the commemoration of Holocaust Day.

Frederik Landshoft stated that Germany’s friendship with Israel is built on trust, which allows for open discussions about difficult issues. “Precisely because of this close and lasting bond, we speak openly about our deep concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and development in the West Bank,” he said.

The Ambassador emphasised that international humanitarian law applies to everyone, without exception, and that the protection of civilians and restraint in the use of force are not optional. “These are not opposing positions. They are consequences of the same moral foundation,” he added.

“Today we remember the Holocaust… because the future depends on it. Because when witnesses call silence, responsibility does not,” he said.

The event featured candlelighting and a panel discussion, moderated by Ambassador Gilad, highlighting the importance of remembrance to prevent future atrocities.

 

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

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