01/07/2026
AMBASSADOR MAVIS AMA FRIMPONG OPENS FEF-AI4SD CONFERENCE 2026 IN PARIS
The FEF-AI4SD Conference 2026 officially opened on 29 June 2026 at the FIAP Jean Monnet Conference Centre in Paris, bringing together researchers, policymakers, diplomats, academics, and industry leaders from Africa and Europe to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in advancing sustainable development. The conference, which runs until 3 July 2026, features scientific presentations, panel discussions, stakeholder engagements, and a technical visit to the world-class research facilities at Université Paris-Saclay.
Her Excellency Mavis Ama Frimpong, Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to France, delivered the opening remarks, emphasising that Africa is no longer a passive consumer of digital technologies but is increasingly emerging as a creator of knowledge and innovation capable of addressing its own development challenges. She highlighted Ghana's commitment to building a robust artificial intelligence ecosystem through the development of a National AI Strategy and the launch of the country's AI agenda under the leadership of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama.
Her Excellency noted that the responsible application of AI has the potential to transform key sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, scientific research, and economic development.
In her remarks, the Ambassador commended Dr. Daniel Adjei, PhD Research Engineer at the Institut de Chimie Physique, Université Paris-Saclay, for his leadership in strengthening Ghana–France scientific cooperation through the FEF-AI4SD initiative.
She praised his efforts in bringing together leading researchers, policymakers, and institutions from both countries to foster collaboration in artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
Her Excellency also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Ghanaian delegation, including Professor Jerry John Kponyo and his team from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), representatives from the University of Cape Coast, and Professor Francis Hasford, Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, and his delegation. She noted that their participation reflects Ghana's growing leadership in AI research, innovation, and scientific collaboration.
A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KNUST and Université Paris-Saclay, witnessed by Her Excellency. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in artificial intelligence, scientific research, innovation, academic exchange, capacity building, and technology transfer. It is expected to facilitate joint research projects, staff and student exchanges, and the development of innovative solutions that contribute to sustainable development in both Ghana and France.
The conference also brought together senior French Government officials and leading research experts, underscoring its international character. Among them was Madame Clarisse Munier, Deputy Director for Europe and International Affairs responsible for the Middle East and India, who highlighted the importance of scientific diplomacy and international cooperation in addressing global challenges. She was joined by representatives of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, who reaffirmed France's commitment to strengthening research, innovation, and higher education partnerships with Ghana and the wider African continent.
The FEF-AI4SD Conference 2026 marks another important milestone in the growing partnership between Ghana and France in science, technology, and innovation. As the conference continues through 3 July 2026, participants will engage in scientific presentations, stakeholder discussions, and visits to leading research facilities at Université Paris-Saclay, further strengthening collaboration in artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
The Embassy of Ghana remains committed to supporting partnerships that advance research, innovation, and knowledge exchange for the mutual benefit of Ghana, France, and the wider African continent.
Below is a highlight of the Ambassador's opening speech.
