The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) in collaboration with the Centre for Latin American Studies (CLAS), College of Humanities, University of Ghana, held its first Continental Congress in Africa at the University of Ghana’s Maison Français Conference Room. The theme of the congress was: ‘Africa and Latin America: A Call for Dialogues and Connections’, which was aimed at fostering insightful conversations and building of connections between the two regions. In his opening remarks as Chairman, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori, Provost of the College of Humanities expressed his pleasure at the significance of the choice of Ghana as congress host, given that it coincided with the University's 75th Anniversary celebrations. He commended the Centre for Latin American Studies (CLAS) under the leadership of Dr. Joana Boampong for taking great measures to promote engagement between Ghana, Africa and Latin America, through their collaboration with LASA.  

The Provost also noted the significance of the theme of the congress, in seeking to foster greater understanding, collaboration and friendship between the two continents. He, therefore, encouraged all participants to take advantage of the opportunity to connect, socialise and build networks for future collaboration and urged all guests from Latin America and other African countries visiting Ghana for the first time to take in the sights and enjoy their stay in the beautiful country.

                            Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori, Provost, College of Humanities giving his remarks.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Jo-Marie Burt, President of the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) thanked the University of Ghana for hosting the very first Continental Congress of the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) in Africa. She stressed the significance of Ghana being selected as the host, given that Ghana is the ‘Gateway to Africa’. She then went on to state that both regions share a common colonial imposition, slavery and exploitation by the Europeans and expressed how inspired she was by the Africans who thrived and survived through their resilience and creativity in the face of oppression and suppression. Dr. Burt concluded her speech by stating that both Africa and Latin America share the spirit of resistance, and as such encouraged both regions to forge stronger connections to further resist their oppressor's rule. 

                   Prof. Jo-Marie Burt, President, Latin American Studies Association (LASA) delivering her speech.

Founding Director of the Centre of Latin American Studies (CLAS), Dr. Joana Boampong noted the significance of the congress not only because it was held in the year that the University was celebrating its 75th Anniversary, but also because it took place on the same day that the Centre was inaugurated seven years ago in 2016. She elaborated on the mandate of the Centre and spoke at length about how it serves as a bridge between Africa and Latin America. She also assured participants of the continued collaboration between CLAS and LASA through further dialogue and connections.

                            Dr. Joana Boampong, Founding Director, Centre of Latin American Studies (CLAS).

Prof. Mara Viveros – Vigoya, from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia in Bogela, Colombia then addressed the congress, encouraging Africa and Latin America to continue to strengthen their bond and work together for the betterment of both continents. Following this Mr. Sosu, a level 200 student at the Department of Modern Languages (Spanish section), then performed a recital in Spanish to the delight and admiration of the audience.

                             Mr. Sosu, Level 200, Department of Modern Languages (Spanish section).

Hon. Daniel Garces Carabali, the Ambassador of Colombia to Ghana commented on the historic nature of the congress and gave the assurance that the government of Colombia was taking the necessary steps to strengthen not only the ties between Ghana and Colombia but also that between Africa and Latin America. He also applauded the good work done by the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) and the Centre for Latin American Studies (CLAS) in organising the congress.

                                   Hon. Daniel Garces Carabali, Ambassador of Colombia to Ghana.

In a speech read on his behalf, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong expressed his gratitude to the nation of Colombia for their continued support towards Ghana. He highlighted the significant role played by Colombia in building the capacity of critical institutions like the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Military Service, and the Narcotics Control Commission and urged everyone to actively participate in order to build connections that will help foster a stronger bond between the two nations.     
 
In his closing remarks, the Provost of the College of Humanities, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori expressed his appreciation to the speakers, dignitaries, sponsors, guests, participants and students for taking time off their busy schedules to put in such a commendable effort into achieving a successful and impactful congress. The congress, he said, emphasised the importance of dialogue and connections in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between Africa and Latin America. Present at the congress were ambassadors and delegates from Peru, Mexico, Chile and Spain; Hon. Mark Okraku-Mantey, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Prof. Helen Yitah, immediate past Dean of the School of Languages, Dr. Samuel Koffi, Head, Department of French, Members of the Latin American Studies Association and Students from the University of Ghana.

                                                     A cross-section of participants at the event.