UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) today paid last respects to WOII Abubakari Ibrahim of the Ghanaian Contingent, who lost his life in a tragic vehicle accident on 28 July, while on duty in south Lebanon.

At a somber ceremony at Rafik Hariri International Airport, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro and representatives of the Lebanese Armed Forces laid wreaths to honor WOII Abubakari and posthumously awarded him the UN and LAF medals.

"Warrant Officer Abubakari Ibrahim proudly represented his country and his armed forces in UNIFIL. He has been a remarkable member of the Ghanaian Battalion, a unit that has made exemplary efforts to contribute to stability in this region," said UNIFIL Head of Mission Major General Lázaro. "We thank his family and his country for giving us the privilege and honor to serve with him and for his contribution to the UNIFIL mission."

WOII Abubakari was a dedicated and professional soldier who served with diligence and pride in the Ghana Armed Forces for 19 years. As a veteran peacekeeper, he had served with the United Nations peacekeeping missions in Congo, Libya, South Sudan and had two tours with UNIFIL. Prior to his third deployment with UNIFIL, he was a Jungle Expert Trainer and a Physical Training Instructor of the Ghana Armed Forces Jungle Warfare School. During his tour of duty in UNIFIL, he displayed the highest standards of professionalism with his in-depth knowledge, skill, and modest attitude.

WOII Abubakari Ibrahim is survived by his wife and children.

Since UNIFIL’s establishment in 1978, over 320 peacekeepers have died while serving for peace in south Lebanon.