The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has cancelled plans by Ministry staff to organize a surprise welcome for him at Accra International Airport. He explained that Ghana’s recent diplomatic success at the United Nations is not just his own achievement.
Before returning to Ghana, Mr. Ablakwa shared on Facebook that he found out about the staff’s plans to give him a ceremonial welcome, which is a tradition for marking important national achievements. He said he had told them to cancel the event right away.
“I have conveyed my gratitude to management for their considerate gesture and instructed that all plans to provide me with a surprise welcome at the Airport be cancelled without delay,” he remarked.
The Minister, who was part of President John Dramani Mahama’s delegation to the United Nations, played a pivotal role in Ghana’s diplomatic initiative for a groundbreaking resolution on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade.
The resolution, led by President Mahama, was approved by the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, following a significant vote, representing a crucial milestone in global endeavors toward reparatory justice.
Upon his return to Ghana on Sunday, March 29, President Mahama publicly praised Mr. Ablakwa and the Foreign Affairs team for their extensive diplomatic efforts in garnering support for the resolution.
“But before I address the statement, I want to express my gratitude to my Foreign Minister, Okudzeto Ablakwa: I provided the guidance, but they executed the work. The thousands of kilometers he traveled from country to country, seeking support for this resolution, must be acknowledged,” the President stated.
Despite the accolades, Mr. Ablakwa insisted that the accomplishment belongs to the entire nation rather than to any single individual.
“This is not a personal victory, and furthermore, there is more work ahead of us,” he stressed.
He also conveyed his gratitude to the personnel of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, characterizing them as “dynamic and talented,” while reiterating Ghana’s dedication to promoting its interests internationally.
“May God bless all our dynamic and talented staff at the MFA and may our beloved nation continue to thrive on the global stage under the leadership of President John Mahama,” he further stated.
Ghana’s effective advocacy at the United Nations has garnered global recognition, placing the nation at the leading edge of revitalized international discussions regarding reparations and historical justice.
