Reflecting on the Francophonie Summit with Juan Carlos Ondo Angué

In a recent interview on the Global Africa Telesud program Tumultes, Juan Carlos Ondo Angué, President of NEXOS, shared insights into the cultural, political, and social dimensions of the recent Francophonie Summit. Leveraging his experience as a former President of the Supreme Court of Equatorial Guinea, Juan Carlos discussed the complex role of the International Organisation La Francophonie (OIF), particularly for countries outside the traditional Francophone spheres. 

 Though Equatorial Guinea is Spanish-speaking, the country has been a member of the OIF since 1989. Juan Carlos underscored how, as a nation surrounded by French-speaking neighbours, Equatorial Guinea’s membership goes beyond language, rooted in a need for regional integration and overcoming political isolation. 

Juan Carlos delved into OIF’s shift from a cultural organisation to one that also addresses issues like democracy and human rights. Highlighting governance issues, Juan Carlos pointed out that migration from Africa to Europe often stems not merely from economic hardship but from governance crises that leave citizens without opportunities. He called on European nations to support African governance reforms more actively, not as a form of neo-colonialism but to help African countries improve local conditions and curb forced migration. 

Further, he highlighted the importance of internal African mobility, advocating for greater freedom of movement within Africa to enhance intercontinental trade and strengthen local economies.  

Ultimately, Juan Carlos’s reflections affirm his belief in OIF as a means to foster solidarity, dialogue, and mutual support among member states. This interview highlights the complex interplay between culture, politics, and development in OIF, making it clear why Equatorial Guinea remains committed to this diverse international organisation.