Ghana marks 55th La Francophonie anniversary

 The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudze­to Ablakwa, has reaffirmed the country’s commit­ment to fostering unity between Anglophone and Francophone communities to enhance regional peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development.

“Indeed, in the context of our current regional and global political landscape, the promotion of these ideals has become even more imperative,” he stated.

Speaking at a flag-raising cere­mony in Accra yesterday to mark the 55th anniversary of La Fran­cophonie, Mr Ablakwa highlighted the importance of strengthening ties in the face of current global political challenges.

He stressed the need for Africa to promote fair trade, economic inclusiveness, justice, and a world free from war and hunger to ensure shared prosperity.

The event marked Ghana’s first year as a full member of La Fran­cophonie, a global organisation of French-speaking countries.

Held on the theme: ‘I educate myself, therefore I act,’ the cele­bration underscored the role of education in empowering citizens to contribute meaningfully to society.

Mr Ablakwa in his address de­scribed Ghana’s full membership as a symbol of reconciliation and positive engagement, even as the Francophone community faced internal divisions.

“It should have been of much greater joy that Ghana attains full membership at a time of unity and strength. Unfortunately, we join at a time of suspicion and un­certainty among member states,” he outlined.

He a called for the promotion of language diversity as a means of fostering social cohesion and sustainable development.

“Africa accounts for about one-third of the world’s languages, but many are at risk of extinction. UNESCO estimates that up to 10 per cent of African languages, especially those spoken by small communities, could disappear within a century,” Mr Ablakwa stated.

He advocated the adoption of a common African indigenous language to unify the continent.

“I pray for the day our conti­nent will have a common indig­enous language understood by all Africans, from West to East, South to North, and beyond our shores. This is not wishful think­ing — it is an ideal we can achieve if we commit to it,” he added.

Moreover, touching on the theme, Mr Ablakwa emphasised the importance of quality educa­tion in empowering individuals and transforming societies.

“Education should equip our graduates with the skills and knowledge to compete globally and improve their standards of living,” he stressed.

The Ambassador of Lebanon and President of the Group of Francophonie Ambassadors, Maher Kheir, praised Ghana’s full membership in La Franco­phonie, highlighting the country’s potential to influence the future of the Francophone community in Africa.

He called for greater solidarity, peace, justice, and cultural harmo­ny among member states.

“Ghana’s membership offers a unique platform to bridge the gap between Anglophone and Franco­phone nations and contribute to shaping the future of the Fran­cophone community,” Mr Kheir said.

 BY KINGSLEY ASARE

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