The Council of Ghanaian Nationals Association in Italy (COGNAI) hosted a vibrant celebration of Ghana's 67th Independence Day, under the leadership of its President, Mr. Micheal Acquah.

The event brought together dignitaries, community leaders, and Ghanaians throughout Italy to commemorate the Nation’s Independence. These included Chieftaincy, the Executive of CONAI and the President of NUGS, Italy, Mr. Prince Boadu Boateng. The Vice Mayor of Castelaranno, Mr. Paolo Lotti, as well as other personalities from Italian Companies such as Ms. Dinah Rodrigues Dos Santos, Assosciazione Terra Dei Popoli,  and Mr. Assessore Jacopo Buffolo, Coordinator of Mediatori Culturale Linguistic were also present.

Through the Mission’s efforts, Ethiopian Airlines, was one of the sponsors of the event as the airline donated one return air ticket from Rome or Milan to Accra.

Ghana’s Ambassador to Italy, H.E. Mrs. Merene Benyah, delivered an inspiring speech during which she highlighted Ghana's democratic progress, the contributions of Ghanaians in the diaspora, and the nation's commitment to economic transformation.

Under the theme “Our Democracy, Our Pride”, the Ambassador focused on Ghana’s journey from colonial rule to a thriving democracy as a source of pride for the nation and an inspiration to others.

She explained the role of the Nation’s development by stating that Ghanaians abroad had a vital role to play in shaping the country's future, contributing skills, knowledge, and resources. She urged the diaspora to uphold Ghanaian values, respect Italian laws, and strive for educational and professional excellence.

On economic transformation, she enumerated Government programmes such as the One District One Factory, Planting for Food and Jobs, among others, as drivers for a prosperous and inclusive Ghana.    

Touching on unity, she averred that a strong and united Ghanaian community as found in Italy, is essential for success. The role of the Embassy was emphasized as being committed to serving Ghanaians, promoting trade and investment initiatives, and improving consular services. The Ambassador disclosed that the Embassy had now installed Points of Sale (POS) systems for consular services and applicants now have the choice to pay with their bank cards to progressively migrate to a cashless system. 

Cultural Showcase: Chiefs and Queen Mothers adorned in traditional attire added to the festive atmosphere. The Dangme group provided a beautiful cultural display and popular Ghanaian artist Ogidi Brown entertained with a live musical performance.

On March 10^th, the Deputy Head of Mission, Mrs. Matilda Alomatu Osei-Agyeman and Accounting Officer, Mrs. Kate Armah attended a thanksgiving service at Bethel Assemblies of God in Verona, emphasizing unity and the positive attitude of the Ghanaian community.

Embassy of Ghana

Rome

18^th March, 2024