The President of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors in Ghana (GAF), Assiélou Félix Tanon, has stressed on the growing importance of Ghana within the global Francophone community, as the country marked the International Day of La Francophonie in Accra.

Delivering a statement on behalf of the diplomatic group on March 20, 2026, he noted that the annual celebration commemorates the establishment of the International Organisation of La Francophonie, a body that has, over the years, promoted the French language as a tool for dialogue, solidarity, and international cooperation.

According to him, more than 321 million people worldwide use French as a medium for communication, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening ties across continents.

He commended Ghana for officially joining the Francophone family in October 2024, describing the move as a significant step toward deepening the country’s engagement with French-speaking nations.

“This milestone reflects Ghana’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic, cultural, and economic relations within the Francophone space,” he stated.

The 2026 global celebration is being held under the theme; “Education for Peace: The Contribution of Youth to a More Peaceful World,” which reflects the critical role of young people in promoting peace, inclusion, and social transformation.

In Ghana, the commemoration is particularly under the theme; “Positioning Ghana within the Francophone Space: Language, Partnerships and Opportunities.”

Ambassador Assiélou Félix Tanon explained that the theme underpins the strategic relevance of the French language, particularly given Ghana’s location within a predominantly Francophone region.

He noted that proficiency in French presents significant opportunities in education, trade, diplomacy, and regional cooperation, especially for the youth.

The Francophone ambassadors also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the learning of French and in the strengthening of partnerships in education, culture, and economic development.

Tanon emphasised that La Francophonie remains a vital platform for advancing shared values such as peace, democracy, human rights, cultural diversity, and sustainable development.

He added that the group would continue to collaborate closely with Ghanaian authorities and the international community to ensure that the French language serves as a bridge between cultures and a tool for dialogue and development.

The International Day of La Francophonie celebrations formed part of activities marking the global celebration of La Francophonie, which brings together countries and communities that share the use of the French language.

Read his full statement below:

ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY ASSIÉLOU FÉLIX TANON, PRESIDENT OF THE GROUP OF FRANCOPHONE AMBASSADORS IN GHANA (GAF)

On the occasion of the International Day of La Francophonie – 20th March 2026, Accra, Ghana
Dear Members of the Francophone Community in Ghana,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The International Day of La Francophonie is celebrated each year on 20 March by the global community. This date marks the creation, on 20 March 1970, of the Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation, which later evolved into the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).

Since that historic milestone, countless initiatives have been undertaken across the five continents to promote the French language — a powerful instrument of dialogue, solidarity, and cooperation among nations.

Today, according to statistics, more than 321 million women and men from diverse cultural backgrounds use French to communicate, exchange ideas, and engage in discussions on issues of shared interest. Through this common language, meaningful bonds are forged among millions of people around the world.

On this significant occasion, I wish, on behalf of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors accredited to Ghana, to salute all countries and peoples who share the French language while preserving the richness of their cultural identities.

I also extend my warmest congratulations to Ghana, a partner and friendly nation, which officially joined the Francophone family in October 2024 — an important step in strengthening its engagement with the Francophone world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

This year’s global celebration is held under the theme: “Education for Peace: The Contribution of Youth to a More Peaceful World.”

This theme highlights the essential role of young people in building a more peaceful, inclusive, and united world.

In a global context marked by numerous challenges, youth represent a force for innovation, dialogue, and social transformation. Their commitment to peace, tolerance, and harmonious coexistence is more necessary than ever.

In Ghana, the Francophonie celebration is being observed under the theme: “Positioning Ghana within the Francophone Space: Language, Partnerships and Opportunities.”

This theme underscores the strategic importance of the French language for Ghana, a country situated at the heart of a predominantly Francophone region.

Mastery of French opens new opportunities in education, trade, diplomacy, regional cooperation, and employment, particularly for younger generations.

On this occasion, the Francophone Group in Ghana reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the learning of French, strengthen educational, cultural, and economic partnerships, and encourage exchanges among peoples.

I am convinced that La Francophonie represents a privileged space for dialogue, cooperation, and solidarity, founded on shared values such as peace, democracy, cultural diversity, and sustainable development.

As we celebrate the International Day of La Francophonie, I would like, in my capacity as Chair of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors in Ghana, to reiterate our unwavering commitment to promoting the values of La Francophonie: peace, democracy, human rights, and inclusive development.

The Group of Francophone Ambassadors will continue to work closely with the Ghanaian authorities and the international community to ensure that the French language remains a vehicle for shared progress, a bridge between cultures, and an instrument for peace, dialogue, and development.

Long live La Francophonie!
Thank you.

AE