The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has cancelled plans by staff of the Ministry to organise a “surprise welcome” at the Kotoka International Airport, insisting that Ghana’s recent diplomatic success at the United Nations is not a personal achievement.
In a Facebook post ahead of his return to Ghana, Mr Ablakwa disclosed that he had become aware of arrangements by staff to receive him ceremonially—an internal tradition used to mark major national milestones. He said he had instructed that the event be called off immediately.
“I have expressed my appreciation to management for their thoughtful gesture and instructed that all such plans to offer me a surprise welcome at the Airport be cancelled immediately,” he stated.
The Minister, who was part of President John Dramani Mahama’s delegation to the United Nations, played a central role in Ghana’s diplomatic push for a historic resolution on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade.
The resolution, spearheaded by President Mahama, was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, following a decisive vote, marking a major milestone in global efforts toward reparatory justice.
Upon his return to Ghana on Sunday, March 29, President Mahama publicly commended Mr Ablakwa and the Foreign Affairs team for their extensive diplomatic efforts in securing support for the resolution.
“But before I go to the statement I want to thank my Foreign Minister, Okudzeto Ablakwa: I gave the guidance but they did the leg work. The thousands of kilometres he travelled from country to country, canvassing support for this resolution, must be acknowledge,” the President said.
Despite the commendation, Mr Ablakwa maintained that the achievement belongs to the nation as a whole rather than any individual.
“This is not a personal victory, and besides, there is more work ahead of us,” he emphasised.
He also expressed appreciation to staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, describing them as “dynamic and talented,” and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advancing its interests on the global stage.
“God bless all our dynamic and talented staff at the MFA and bless our dear country even more to keep winning on the global stage under the guidance of President John Mahama,” he added.
Ghana’s successful push at the United Nations has drawn international attention, positioning the country at the forefront of renewed global conversations on reparations and historical justice.
