History and journey so far
This is an outline of the history and formation of the Ghana National Council of Sweden, its purpose, accomplishments, and strategic direction for the future.
Background and Overview
In January 2018, leaders of the Ghanaian associations in Gothenburg, Malmö, and Stockholm initiated plans to visit the then Ambassador, Her Excellency Amerley Ollennu Awua-Asamoa, to discuss consular issues and strengthen engagement between the Embassy and the Ghanaian community in Sweden. Prior to this meeting, the Ghana Union of Gothenburg had proposed the formation of a single umbrella organization that would unify all Ghanaian associations in Sweden and champion matters of collective interest. The Ambassador welcomed this vision and assured the leaders of her full support, referencing the successful example of the Council of Ghanaian Associations in Denmark (COGAD).
Following continued discussions, the initiative was expanded to include all registered Ghanaian associations across Sweden. This collaborative effort culminated in the establishment of the Ghana National Council of Sweden (GNCS) on 1 May 2020.
Mandate of the Ghana National Council of Sweden (GNCS)
The Ghana National Council of Sweden was founded to serve as an umbrella organization for Ghanaian Unions and Associations across Sweden. Its mandate is to provide a unified platform through which issues affecting Ghanaians in Sweden can be discussed, addressed, and escalated to relevant authorities when necessary. GNCS continues to serve as a trusted liaison between Swedish authorities and the Ghanaian community, while also offering support to Ghanaian individuals across Sweden, including those not affiliated with any organisation.
GNCS is headquartered in Stockholm and operates as an independent, non-partisan, and non-profit organization committed to promoting the welfare, rights, and collective interests of the Ghanaian community.
The Council currently comprises seven registered Ghanaian associations across Sweden:
- Ghana Union of Gothenburg – Gothenburg
- Ghana Youth Sweden – Stockholm
- Zango Youth – Stockholm
- Ghana Union Uppsala – Uppsala
- Ghana Friendship Association – Stockholm
- Ghanaian-Swedish Association – Malmö
- Asanteman Sweden – Stockholm
GNCS also has a Whatsapp platform with over 450 members across Sweden. This helps us in sharing important information to many people at a go.
Aim and Objectives
The Council’s core aims are as follows:
- To unite Ghanaian associations and provide a strong, coordinated voice within Swedish society.
- To act as a non-political, non-religious body that protects and promotes the interests of all Ghanaians in Sweden.
- To identify and develop opportunities that strengthen Ghanaian communities across Sweden.
Create an environment for Ghanaian and Swedish businesses to explore opportunities in trade and investment.
Expanding Membership and Community Inclusion
GNCS recognizes that unity and inclusivity are essential to meeting the challenges faced by our community—particularly in areas such as immigration, employment, and integration. The Council therefore continues to actively engage additional Ghanaian organizations.
Over the years, GNCS has had meetings with known registered Ghanaian associations in Sweden to discuss the possibility of them joining the Council. The leaders of these associations were initially part of a forum to bring all leaders across Sweden together. By early 2024, meetings had been held with the leadership of Ghana Union Stor Stockholm, Ghanaian Ladies Sweden, and GaDangme Sweden. These engagements were productive, and the Council remains optimistic that these unions will soon join the Council.
