Ghana celebrates African Union Day with flag-raising ceremony and food bazaar

Accra, May 25, 2023 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, in collaboration with various stakeholders, organized a flag-raising ceremony and food bazaar to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the African Union (AU) Day. The event took place at the Forecourt of the State House, with the theme “Accelerated Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”

Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, delivered a statement through Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Thomas Mbomba, emphasizing the critical importance of the AfCFTA theme for Africa’s sustainable development. She called on all African Union member states to work together to implement the AfCFTA, highlighting its status as the largest free trade area in the world and the potential it holds for promoting intra-African trade and economic integration.

Hon. Ayorkor Botchwey stressed that the accelerated implementation of AfCFTA can stimulate economic growth and development across the continent by removing trade barriers and creating a larger single market. She urged member states to collaborate in accelerating the implementation of AfCFTA protocols, as it has the potential to shape the economic future of Africa, strengthen its global market position, and uplift the lives of its people.

H.E. Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, reaffirmed the strong commitment of the AfCFTA Secretariat to work with all AU member states and partners towards achieving the goals and aspirations of the AfCFTA. He urged member states to actively participate in the realization of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement for the benefit of all Africans.

H.E. Imane Quaadil, the Ambassador of Morocco to Ghana and Dean of the African Group of the Diplomatic Corps, acknowledged the significant progress made since the establishment of the AU. She reiterated the commitment of the African Group to actively engage in future initiatives aimed at achieving Africa’s prosperity and well-being.

Following the flag-raising ceremony, a food bazaar showcased diverse cuisines from across the African continent, allowing participants to savor the culinary delights.

The event was attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials from the Ghana Armed Forces, various ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as the media and students.

The flag-raising ceremony and food bazaar served as a vibrant celebration of the 60th anniversary of the African Union, highlighting the importance of the AfCFTA and fostering unity, prosperity, and integration within Africa.