The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Ghana has called for greater African representation in global decision-making, urging world leaders to embrace inclusive diplomacy, dialogue and cooperation as essential tools for promoting peace.
The call was made during an international webinar organised by UPF Ghana to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the United Nations (UN).
The event, which brought together nearly 20 academics, religious leaders, diplomats and youth advocates from Africa and other parts of the world, focused on the role of effective communication and mutual understanding in addressing global challenges.
Held under the theme, “UN at 81: Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation – A United Nations That Delivers for All,” the webinar examined the importance of listening and being heard in peacebuilding and international relations.
Delivering the keynote address, Rev. Dr. Christian Kwetey Kweitsu, Chief Executive Officer of Krispat Hearing Centre Ghana Ltd., highlighted the connection between human hearing and effective communication in conflict resolution.
Dr. Kweitsu, an audiologist, minister and international peace advocate, said many peacebuilding efforts failed because of poor communication, perceived disrespect and unresolved grievances.
“Hearing is a function of the ear; listening is a function of the heart,” he said.
He explained that effective hearing involves four stages: gathering, valuing, understanding and responding, noting that the same principles could be applied to resolving conflicts within societies and between nations.
Addressing issues of global representation, Dr. Kweitsu questioned Africa’s continued absence from the permanent membership of the UN Security Council, despite the continent’s population of approximately 1.4 billion.
He called for a shift from aid-based relationships to genuine partnerships that give African countries a meaningful role in international decision-making.
“To listen beyond the ears at a global level means moving from aid to partnership, and from speaking about Africa to speaking with Africa,” he said.
In his opening remarks, moderator Tegha King highlighted the message of outgoing UN Secretary-General António Guterres, emphasising the need for dialogue over division, cooperation over confrontation and solidarity over fear.
He also drew attention to global challenges, including climate change, armed conflicts and artificial intelligence, which require stronger international cooperation.
Rev. Abigail Sheilamite, founder of Grace Harvesters Global Sanctuary, led the opening prayers, calling on world leaders to prioritise understanding and uphold human dignity and freedom in international diplomacy.
Youth participation featured prominently in the discussions, with Pan-African Youth President Enoch Godson raising questions about the role of tertiary institutions in peacebuilding.
Responding to the concerns, UPF Ghana leadership pledged support for the establishment of student-led peace clubs on tertiary campuses and the expansion of monthly University Peace Talks across Ghana.
The initiatives are expected to provide platforms for students to engage in peace education, dialogue and leadership development.
UPF announces Humanitarian Week
Meanwhile, UPF Ghana has announced that its annual Humanitarian Week will take place from December 1 to 7, 2026, as part of efforts to support vulnerable communities.
Ambassador Ojo Samuel, President of the Ambassador for Peace Association of Ghana, together with UPF executives, called on individuals, organisations and development partners to support the initiative.
The programme will involve nationwide collection drives for clothing, food and essential supplies to support residents of the Buduburam Refugee Camp and underprivileged communities.
Blood donation campaigns will also be organised during the week.
The organisers urged the public and corporate organisations to participate in the activities and contribute towards improving the welfare of vulnerable people.
The commemoration reaffirmed UPF Ghana’s commitment to promoting international cooperation, peaceful coexistence and humanitarian service.
The Universal Peace Federation is an international non-governmental organisation with General Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). It supports the work of the United Nations and advocates a world where people can live in freedom, harmony and mutual prosperity.
Source: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
