By Hannah Dadzie
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with Francophone nations, saying the country’s full membership with Francophonie marks a new era of diplomacy, economic cooperation, and cultural integration. Speaking at the flag-raising ceremony to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) in Accra, Mr. Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized Ghana’s resolve to bridge linguistic divides, promote regional stability, and harness new opportunities for trade, education, and development. He also advocated preservation of indigenous languages, calling on African governments to promote multilingualism as a tool for unity and sustainable development.
The 55th anniversary of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) in Ghana, marks the country’s first observance of La Francophonie Day as a full member of the organization. Ghana transitioned from an Associate Member, a status it held since 2006, to a full-fledged member at the 19th OIF Summit in France in October 2024. In his address, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted Ghana’s unique position between Anglophone and Francophone Africa, emphasizing the nation’s longstanding recognition of bilingualism and cross-cultural cooperation. He reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging its membership to bridge linguistic divides, enhance diplomatic collaboration, and unlock economic and investment opportunities.
“ The UNESCO Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger estimates that up to 10 percent of African languages, particularly those spoken by small communities, could disappear within a century. This must be a source of worry for all of us. This is because language is the ultimate embodiment of our diverse cultures and identities. Our history, customs, and traditions are preserved through our languages.” The Foreign Affairs Minister said
This year’s celebration focused on “I educate myself, therefore I act”, underscoring the vital role of education in addressing global challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and technological disparity. Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strengthen the education sector to empower future generations, referencing President John Dramani Mahama’s recent launch of the National Education Forum to shape policies that will equip students with globally competitive skills. Addressing concerns about divisions within the OIF, Mr. Ablakwa expressed optimism that Ghana’s full membership would contribute to reconciliation and unity within the organization.
“Unfortunately, we attain full membership at the time some are leaving and at a time of deep troubling suspicion among members countries. It is my fervent desire that Ghana’s full membership will serve as an omen of reconciliation and positive re-engagement.” Mr Ablakwa said
The Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana and President of the Francophonie Ambassadors, Maher Kheir, noted that the celebration serves as a guiding principle in their efforts to foster a world built on solidarity, mutual respect, peace, justice, and cultural harmony.
“As we celebrate La Francophonie, we honor not only the French language
but also the incredible cultural diversity it brings together. Francophonie is a space
where differences are not barriers but bridges, where dialogue, understanding, and
cooperation thrive across continents.
Let us remember that our strength lies in our diversity” Ambassador Kheir said
The ceremony brought together dignitaries, including members of the diplomatic corps, the West African Representative of La Francophonie, government officials and International La Francophonie Day is observed annually to promote the French language and cultural diversity among Francophone nations and partners. With this new chapter in Ghana’s foreign relations, the country seeks to deepen its engagement with the Francophone community while championing inclusivity, economic justice, and cultural diversity on the global stage.
2 Responses
Ghana should withdraw from the ‘Francophonie’…it is a neo-colonial organization that former President Akuffo Addo got us involved in.
Ghana is NOT a French-speaking country. Even so-called Francophone countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are withdrawing from it.