Ghana on Friday joined the Switzerland community to celebrate the Switzerland National Day in Accra to remember the foundation of the nation some 734 years ago.
In attendance were the Switzerland Ambassador in Ghana, Mrs Simeone Giger, staff of the Embassy, Swiss residents in Ghana, and people from all walks of life.
Mrs Giger recounted Switzerland’s history dating back centuries ago, in which representatives from the Swiss Confederation’s three original cantons – Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden – formed a defensive alliance against external threats.
She said they swore to each other: “We long to be one people, united as brothers. No distress or danger shall separate us. We want to be free, just like our fathers were.”
In this spirit of freedom, Mrs Giger said Switzerland had grown to what it is today: a “Willensnation” – a nation forged by will, consisting of 26 autonomous cantons.
The Swiss Ambassador stated that her country also acknowledged the importance of sisters and mothers in holding the nation together.
She said as the Swiss people reflect on the nation’s founding here in Ghana, they cannot miss the striking similarities between Switzerland and Ghana.
Mrs Giger said Switzerland and Ghana were founded on similar principles and values of desire of the people to be free and self-determining.
“We believe that the 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. In fact, both of our countries have managed to maintain a striking unity in our diversity, serving as examples for other nations,” she added.
Mrs Giger identified democracy as one of the most crucial elements keeping Ghana and Switzerland together.
In a world often marked by division, the Switzerland Ambassador to Ghana noted that the Swiss democracy was standing strong, thanks to its tradition of pursuing consensus.
She said the elaborate consultations on possible constitutional amendments in the ongoing constitutional review process in Ghana were evidence of the government’s willingness to ensure a democracy that is relevant, participatory and inclusive.
For his part, Mr Seidu Issifu, the Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability, said Ghana acknowledges Switzerland’s steadfast support of its decentralisation agenda, especially through the newly launched Ghana–Switzerland Economic Cooperation Programme (2025–2028).
He said the programme marks a new chapter in the bilateral cooperation, aimed at promoting inclusive development and reinforcing local governance structures. It is our firm belief that decentralisation, when effectively implemented, enhances accountability, deepens democratic engagement, and brings government closer to the people.
In an increasingly polarised world, Mr Issifu said Ghana and Switzerland stand as beacons of how democracy can flourish not by enforcing uniformity, but by nurturing consensus, mutual respect, and shared purpose.
He said both nations understand that democracy is not a destination, but a continuous journey, one that demands informed citizens, visionary leadership, and strong, transparent institutions.
“As we look to the future, the Government of Ghana remains committed to deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the Swiss Confederation. The values that unite us provide a firm foundation for ongoing collaboration in our collective pursuit of peace, democratic governance, and sustainable development,’’ the Minister said.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
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