Africa-Press – Ghana. Madam Simone Giger, Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Benin and Togo, has reaffirmed her country’s commitment to strengthening democratic governance, decentralisation, and inclusive development in Ghana, as Switzerland celebrated its 734th National Day with a reception in Accra.
The event, held at her residence in Accra, brought together government officials, diplomats, the Swiss community, business leaders, and civil society actors to mark the anniversary of the 1291 founding pact that united Switzerland’s original three cantons; Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden, into a defensive alliance.
The Swiss National Day reception reaffirmed the spirit of solidarity that binds Ghana and Switzerland, two nations united by their histories of freedom, their embrace of diversity, and their shared commitment to democracy and sustainable development.
Ambassador Giger drew striking parallels between Switzerland’s origins and Ghana’s independence struggle, noting that both nations were born out of the determination of ordinary people to live freely and govern themselves.
“Switzerland and Ghana are founded on similar principles and values. We believe that people should decide by whom they are governed, and we see the diversity of our people as a source of strength, not as a weakness,” she said.
She lauded Ghana’s democratic tradition, which has endured for more than three decades, stressing that the country had rightfully earned its place as a beacon of stability on the continent.
“The democratic literacy and vigilance of your citizenry is something Ghana can be truly proud of,” the Ambassador said, recalling her observation of Ghana’s 2024 elections in Ho and Takoradi.
Ambassador Giger underscored Switzerland’s ongoing support for Ghana’s constitutional review process, inter-party dialogue, and decentralisation agenda.
She revealed that under the new Economic Cooperation Programme (2025–2028), Switzerland would intensify collaboration with local authorities to strengthen participatory governance.
“In any referendum to come, Ghana can count on Switzerland’s experience and support. After all, we are the world champions in organising referenda,” she said.
Ambassador Giger stated that democracies, no matter how resilient, required constant nurturing.
She said, “To thrive, democracies require informed citizens, a willingness to participate, respectful debate, and the courage to compromise. Switzerland is committed to working together with Ghana in reinforcing these democratic qualities.”
The celebration highlighted the strong ties between the two countries, which span diplomacy, trade, and development cooperation.
Switzerland has become one of Ghana’s reliable partners in the areas of governance reform, renewable energy, education, and climate resilience.
Guests, including former First Lady Samira Bawumia, were treated to a blend of Swiss and Ghanaian cuisine, symbolising the fusion of cultures and shared aspirations of the two nations.
Mr Issifu Seidu, Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability, who represented the Government of Ghana as guest of honour, commended Switzerland for its long-standing friendship with Ghana and praised the bilateral cooperation that continued to yield mutual benefits.
The Minister noted that Ghana valued Switzerland’s support in areas such as environmental sustainability and governance.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening the partnership, especially in the face of global challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and economic recovery.
“Switzerland has shown, through history and practice, that unity in diversity can be a force for progress. Ghana, too, shares this belief and remains committed to building an inclusive, democratic, and sustainable society,” Mr Seidu said.
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