Benin Event Marks UPF’s 20th Anniversary & UN Day of Peace
- khwang562
- Sep 20
- 2 min read
Cotonou, Benin – UPF-Africa and its Benin chapter held a grand commemorative ceremony in Cotonou on September 20, 2025, to celebrate both the 20th anniversary of UPF’s founding and the 45th UN International Day of Peace. Under the theme, “As Ambassadors for Peace, Let Us Act Now in Harmony for a Peaceful World,” 130 participants attended the event, and nearly 400 joined through Zoom and UPF-Africa’s digital platforms. A local television network broadcast the ceremony, extending its reach across the country and beyond.
The ceremony united dignitaries, opinion leaders, and citizens dedicated to promoting peace and mutual understanding across Africa. Through moving speeches and symbolic acts, participants reaffirmed UPF’s vision of building bridges among peoples, cultures, and religions to create a harmonious and prosperous world.
In his keynote address, Dr. Paterne Zinsou, secretary general of UPF-Africa, said, “Peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, solidarity, and reconciliation.” He highlighted the alignment between UPF’s mission and that of the United Nations, both committed to fostering lasting global peace.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to Dr. Hak Ja Han, co-founder of UPF, affectionately known as the Mother of Peace. Dr. Zinsou emphasized that UPF, rooted in the love of God and humanity, continues to grow stronger despite historical challenges, guided by its core principles of interdependence, mutual prosperity, and universally shared values.
H.E. Amadou Diongue, resident representative of ECOWAS in Benin and newly appointed ambassador for peace, quoted UNESCO’s constitution: “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed.” He underscored the need for a culture of peace grounded in tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect among nations and communities.
Following this, Amb. Adama Doumbia, president of UPF-Africa, presented UPF’s Strategic Plan for Peace in Africa, which prioritizes interreligious dialogue, youth engagement, and partnerships for social development.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of ambassador for peace appointments and honorary recognitions. Seven distinguished personalities were appointed as ambassadors for peace, while five prominent figures were awarded certificates of recognition for their outstanding contributions to national and global peacebuilding.
Congratulatory remarks were given by Mrs. Gbedji, president of the Ambassadors for Peace Association of Togo, and Prof. Jean Bio Chabi Orou, permanent delegate of Benin to UNESCO and former government minister and ambassador.
In a moving closing statement, Mr. Gilbert Dake, president of the Ecumenical Foundation for Peace in Africa (FOPA), shared a profound message of unity and faith. As a renowned spiritual guide and expert in conflict resolution and interreligious dialogue, he made a solemn pledge to support UPF’s peace initiatives and to advance the vision of a reconciled and harmonious Africa.
The event culminated in the cutting of the 20th anniversary cake, symbolizing unity, gratitude, and the renewal of UPF’s mission for a peaceful future. As participants joined in song and celebration, one shared conviction resonated across the hall and through the screens: “Peace is not a dream – it is a collective responsibility.”
