The Executive Secretary to the President, Nana Bediatuo Asante, has been appointed Ambassador-at-Large, adding to his role with diplomatic responsibilities.
In a ceremony at the Jubilee House on June 24, 2024, President Akufo-Addo also presented credentials to nine new diplomats and charged them to promote Ghana’s image and interests on the international stage.
“Your primary responsibility is to promote the image of Ghana as a stable, peaceful, and forward-looking country. This entails engaging with your host nations to foster strong bilateral relationships, attract investments, and advocate for the interests of Ghana,” Akufo-Addo said.
The newly appointed diplomats comprise three High Commissioners and five Ambassadors.
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They are Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, High Commissioner-designate to Nigeria; Mrs Francisca Ashietey-Oduntun, 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.
According to the President, their roles are critical amidst the global post-pandemic landscape and Ghana’s developmental journey.
“Your postings have come at a particularly critical juncture not only in global affairs but also in the journey of our nation’s development. The world is gradually emerging from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left a profound impact on all facets of life,” he said.
The President also stressed the importance of engaging actively with Ghanaian communities abroad and leveraging their potential to contribute to the country’s development.
“Our diaspora is a vital component of the Ghanaian fabric, contributing considerably to our economy and cultural heritage. By developing a strong bond with them, you will not only provide them with a sense of belonging but also harness their potential to contribute to Ghana’s development,” he said.
Besides advancing Ghana’s economic interests, the newly appointed ambassadors have been charged with addressing armed conflicts, terrorism, climate change, and illicit financial flows with international collaboration to combat these challenges successfully.
“Part of your responsibilities, at the multilateral level, is to work with the governments of your accreditation to assist in the prosecution of our common agenda in the fight against the scourge of armed conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism, the threats of climate change, and the illicit outflow of funds from Africa,” Akufo-Addo said.
The President concluded his address with a call for professionalism, urging the diplomats to carry out their duties cordially.
“In executing your duties, it is imperative that you cultivate and maintain cordial working relationships with the professional Foreign Service officers who will be your colleagues in the high commissions and embassies,” he said.
