By: Rachel Kakraba
French Ambassador to Ghana, Jules Armand Aniambossou, has renewed commitment to supporting the study of the French language in Ghana. This he says is aimed at helping the country fully leverage the opportunities that come with its full membership into the Organization Internationale de la Francophonie, OIF, in 2024.
He noted that the study of the French language should not only be limited to educational institutions but also be embraced by the business community.
“Ghana became a full state member of the Organization Internationale de la Francophonie at the last summit of this organization, it was in France. France, stand by you to promote the learning of the French language with the support of the five Alliance Française here in Ghana. That is Alliance Française Accra, Alliance Française Kumasi, Alliance Française Tema, Alliance Française Takoradi and Alliance Française Cape Coast.
Ambassador Aniambossou, made the point during a special dinner to commemorate France National Day, on Saturday July 12, 2025.
French National Day
The French National Day, or Bastille Day, commemorates the French Revolution’s key moments. It marks the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, symbolizing the fight of the French people against oppression. Bastille Day has since become a national holiday in France, during which French people celebrate the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity, which is the motto of the French Republic. It serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the pursuit of freedom and democracy.
The 2025 Bastille Day, which was celebrated at the Residence of France, and hosted by the French Ambassador to Ghana, Jules-Armand Aniambossou welcomed French community in Ghana, representatives of the Ghana government, traditional chiefs, artists and personalities as well as persons who have been involved in the cooperation between Ghana and the French Embassy. The event celebrated the democratic values that the two countries share and highlighted the Franco-Ghanaian cooperation, which is beneficial to both countries.
Ghana a beacon of democracy
Ambassador Aniambossou, commended Ghana for the successful and peaceful conduct of the December 7, 2024 elections, describing it as a significant step in strengthening the country’s democratic progress.
“I would like to begin by highlighting the successful organization of the general election in Ghana and the peaceful political change that followed. Dear Ghanaians you have shown once again that your country is still the beacon of democracy, a beacon of stability in West Africa and in Africa”
He reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting the government’s initiatives aimed at promoting the overall well-being of Ghanaian citizens.
“Ghana has entered a new phase and France stands to support the initiative of the new government”
Support to economic recovery
Touching on the economy which he noted was key the French Ambassador, hinted that Ghana will soon receive support from the Paris Club to enable the country regain some financial margins
“The Paris Club, which has been for this purpose extending what we call the common framework, has done remarkable work, which will soon enable Ghana to regain financial margins. I’m very happy to announce here that Ghana should sign shortly, the first bilateral agreement for the restructuring of Sovereign Debt”
He pledged France’s support in contributing to Ghana’s economic recovery, with a particular focus on the maritime and health sectors.
“France is also standing with Ghana’s side to contribute to the country’s economic recovery, with sovereign loans from state to state in the field of maritime safety for instance and public health. I would like to also acknowledge the role of the France Ghana Chamber of Commerce, which is contributing to Ghana’s influence here in France”
Adding on “French companies in Ghana have more than 50,000 direct and indirect jobs and 2.5 billion euros of investment already made. I’m quite happy to say that the private sector is the key element in the country’s economic growth and modernization. Therefore, the business climate is essential for this country’s recovery”
He welcomed the government’s readiness to collaborate in maintaining a fair and competitive market environment for businesses.
“The Ghanaian authorities have begun to restore investor confidence and there is still a long way to go, but I would like to welcome the government willingness to do so and to collaborate to preserve a fair and frank competitive market for companies to invest in Ghana”
Ambassador Aniambossou, praised the longstanding friendship between Ghana and France, highlighting the strengthening of bilateral ties and a shared commitment to values such as equality and mutual respect.
Speaking on behalf of the government, the Minister of Public Sector Reforms, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the longstanding friendship and partnership with France.
“We are encouraged by the continuous spirit of cooperation and remain committed to harnessing the full potential of this dynamic sector for sustainable advancement of our national development agenda”
Ghana, she said, recognizes the contribution of France to its developmental agenda through impactful work of Africa French Development, AFD, in areas such as agriculture, urban infrastructure, and water management.
“In the northern regions, especially where I’m coming from, which continue to face significant development challenges, such initiatives reflect the depth of France’s commitment to promoting sustainable development in Ghana. In the area of defense and security, France has consistently demonstrated its reliability as a strategic partner”
Madam Akanvariba, expressed appreciation to France for its continual support in fostering Ghana’s economic development.
As part of the celebration, a fashion show featured works by Ghanaian creatives, one of the key areas where France has extended its support to Ghana. A raffle was also held, with lucky attendees winning various prizes, including an all-expenses-paid round trip to France.
