President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has presented credentials to nine newly appointed diplomats, urging them to actively promote Ghana’s image and interests abroad.
The appointees include three High Commissioners, five Ambassadors, and one Ambassador-at-Large, tasked with representing Ghana in various countries and international organizations.
The new envoys are Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, High Commissioner-designate to Nigeria; Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, High Commissioner-designate to South Africa; Mr. Ernest Yaw Amporful, High Commissioner-designate to Rwanda; Major General Nicholas Peter Andoh, Ambassador-designate to Türkiye; Mr. Henry Tachie-Menson, Ambassador-designate to Belgium and the EU; Mrs. Charity Gbedawo, Ambassador-designate to Morocco; Ms. Abigail Naa Adzoko Kwashi, Ambassador-designate to Norway; Dr. Robert Afriyie, Ambassador-designate to Ethiopia and the African Union; and Nana Bediatuo Asante, Ambassador-at-Large.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the critical role these diplomats will play in advancing Ghana’s interests and enhancing its international reputation. “Your primary responsibility is to promote the image of Ghana as a stable, peaceful, and forward-looking country,” he stated.
“This entails engaging with your host nations to foster strong bilateral relationships, attract investments, and advocate for the interests of Ghana.”
The President highlighted the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering international cooperation, particularly in light of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He underscored the need for Ghana to build robust relationships with other nations to navigate these challenges effectively.
“High Commissioners-designate and Ambassadors-designate, your postings have come at a particularly critical juncture not only in global affairs but also in the journey of our nation’s development,” President Akufo-Addo noted.
“The world is gradually emerging from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left a profound impact on all facets of life.”
The President also acknowledged the contributions of Vice Admiral Seth Amoama and Major General Nicholas Peter Andoh to Ghana’s military, commending their dedication and leadership.
“Their meritorious service has been instrumental in safeguarding the sovereignty and stability of our nation, and maintaining the integrity of our armed forces,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo urged the new envoys to familiarize themselves with the Ghana CARES ‘Obaatampa’ Programme, which outlines the roadmap for revitalizing the Ghanaian economy.
This ambitious program focuses on supporting commercial farming, building the light manufacturing sector, developing engineering and ICT industries, fast-tracking digitalization, and creating jobs for young people.
“The Ghana CARES ‘Obaatampa’ Programme sets out our roadmap towards the strong revitalization of the Ghanaian economy,” the President explained.
“Each of you must help contribute to the success of this program by facilitating, among other things, as much foreign investment into the country as you can.”
