Mar 12-2026
After several years without an Independence Day celebration in Berne, the Mission organized a special reception to mark Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary with Executives of Ghanaian Associations in Switzerland.
The occasion was also used to honour Mrs. Heidi El-Rifai, a former member of staff of the Mission, for her remarkable and dedicated service spanning over 50 years.
The gathering was particularly meaningful for H.E. Prof. Mrs. Esi Awuah, as it marked her first official meeting with the Ghanaian community in Switzerland. It was also a moment to give thanks to God for the peace and stability Ghana has enjoyed over the past 69 years. Her Excellency noted that Ghanaians remain grateful for life itself - the air we breathe, the food we eat, the clothing and shelter we have, the nation’s democracy, its rich culture and the unity that continues to sustain the country.
Her Excellency also highlighted the special relationship between Ghana and Switzerland. While Switzerland is located at the heart of Europe, Ghana is often referred to as being at the center of the world. Switzerland is widely known for its beauty, strong institutions and industrial development.
As Ambassador, Her Excellency shared her vision of deepening cooperation between the two countries by encouraging the replication of successful industrial models in Ghana, producing goods of high quality while promoting trade, cultural exchange and skills transfer through joint programs, as well as student and staff mobility. She noted that such initiatives would be particularly beneficial to the second and third generations of the Ghanaian diaspora.
The Deputy Head of Mission, Francisca Patoah Gyarko, also highlighted the significant role the Ghanaian diaspora plays in national development. In recognition of this contribution, the diaspora has been officially declared Ghana’s 17th Region.
Her Excellency encouraged members of the community to continue investing in Ghana while also serving as exemplary ambassadors of the nation in their workplaces and communities across Switzerland.
It was truly a beautiful and memorable occasion.
God bless Ghana. God bless Switzerland