Mr. Julius Debrah, Ghana’s Chief of Staff, addressed the nation’s newly appointed envoys at the culmination of a five-day conference and orientation program. He emphasized the critical role these diplomats play in projecting Ghana’s renewed foreign policy vision, urging them to act with pride, honor, and competence. He stressed their dual responsibility: not merely representing the state, but also acting as catalysts for Ghana’s economic transformation. Success, he declared, would be measured by tangible benefits delivered to the citizenry through fostered trade, investment, and development partnerships. The orientation program itself was lauded as a revitalizing force for Ghana’s diplomatic spirit, sharpening the nation’s focus on promoting its interests and values on the global stage. This new cohort of envoys, Debrah asserted, carries the mantle of a modernized, economically driven foreign policy designed for the complexities of the 21st century.
Ghana’s foreign policy, though traditionally grounded in principles of peace, security, non-alignment, and good neighborliness, is now placing a stronger emphasis on economic diplomacy. This strategic shift aims to directly translate diplomatic efforts into tangible improvements for Ghanaians, including job creation, increased investment, technology transfer, and sustainable development initiatives. Debrah outlined four key priorities that will shape Ghana’s diplomacy in the coming years: deepening economic diplomacy, strengthening diaspora engagement, championing climate justice, and modernizing the foreign service. These priorities represent a comprehensive approach to foreign policy, linking economic growth with global responsibility and internal capacity building.
To achieve these ambitious goals, Debrah called on the envoys to actively engage in several key areas. He emphasized the importance of Ghana’s role within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), urging the envoys to drive its success and reinvigorate pan-Africanism. Regional integration, through ECOWAS and the African Union, was also highlighted as a critical area of focus. Furthermore, he tasked the envoys with recognizing the Ghanaian diaspora as vital partners in national development. Their investments, skills, and ability to promote Ghanaian culture abroad are to become central components of Ghana’s foreign policy outreach. Climate action formed another crucial pillar of Debrah’s address. He challenged the envoys to advocate for equitable global climate policies and secure support for Ghana’s green transition and resilience-building initiatives.
The occasion also served as a platform to celebrate the contributions of five distinguished statesmen who have significantly shaped Ghana’s global reputation. Ambassadors Dr. Obed Asamoah, Richard Maximillian Akwei, James Victor Gbeho, Chris Kpodo, and Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas were recognized for their decades of service and enduring legacy in Ghanaian diplomacy. Debrah offered glowing tributes to each awardee, highlighting their individual contributions and characterizing them as exemplars for the new generation of diplomats. He lauded Dr. Asamoah as a giant of Ghanaian diplomacy, combining intellect with a steadfast commitment to Ghana’s sovereignty and African unity. Dr. Ibn Chambas was described as the embodiment of a quiet yet effective diplomat whose influence resonated globally. Ambassadors Gbeho, Kpodo, and Akwei were similarly praised for their respective achievements in international relations.
Mrs. Yassine Fall, Minister for African Integration and Foreign Affairs of Senegal, extended her congratulations to the newly appointed envoys, reminding them that diplomacy is fundamentally about building bridges and fostering relationships. She encouraged them to view Africa’s challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities to strengthen continental cooperation and deepen engagement. She stressed that their responsibilities extend beyond mere representation to active problem-solving, working in the interest of both Ghana and the broader African community. Her remarks underscored the importance of collaboration and a proactive approach to addressing shared continental challenges.
Finally, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and host of the event, commended the envoys for their dedication and professionalism displayed during the intensive orientation program. He highlighted the program’s rigorous schedule, designed to equip the ambassadors with the competence and foresight necessary to excel in their new roles. He expressed confidence that Ghana would benefit greatly from their training and commitment. He encouraged the envoys to draw inspiration from the legacy of Ghana’s diplomatic giants, upholding the values of excellence, pan-Africanism, fairness, and justice. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong network amongst themselves, even after their postings abroad, recognizing this collective network as crucial for sustaining Ghana’s leadership in international diplomacy.
