President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has appointed his Executive Secretary, Nana Bediatuo Asante, as an Ambassador-at-Large.

The appointment, along with the designation of nine other diplomats, was announced during a ceremony held at the Jubilee House.

Nana Bediatuo Asante, who has served as the President’s Executive Secretary since 2017, received his new appointment alongside other distinguished diplomats entrusted with the mission to enhance Ghana’s image and interests abroad.

The group includes three High Commissioners and five Ambassadors, each assigned to key positions in various countries and international organisations.

Among the newly appointed envoys 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; and Dr. Robert Afriyie, Ambassador-designate to Ethiopia and the African Union.

In his address, President Akufo-Addo underscored the pivotal 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.

He continued that: “This entails engaging with your host nations to foster strong bilateral relationships, attract investments, and advocate for the interests of Ghana.”

The President emphasised the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering international cooperation, particularly given the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“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.

 “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 noted.

Highlighting the significance of engaging with Ghanaian communities abroad, President Akufo-Addo called for the new envoys to leverage the diaspora’s 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 further noted.

In addition to promoting Ghana’s economic agenda, the new envoys have been tasked with addressing global issues such as armed conflicts, terrorism, climate change, and illicit financial flows.

“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,” the President stated.

President Akufo-Addo concluded his address with a call for integrity and professionalism, urging the diplomats to perform their duties with dedication to enhance Ghana’s international reputation.

“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.

 “Their support and collaboration will be essential in achieving your objectives and ensuring the success of your missions.”