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Chief of Staff urges Africans in diaspora to unite and tap opportunities in Ghana
The Chief of Staff, at the office of the Vice President, Alex Percival Segbefia has called on Africans in the diaspora to unite, reconnect with their roots and take advantage of opportunities in Ghana.
He said the call was necessary to strengthen shared identity, deepen consciousness about African heritage and harness the skills, influence and resources of Africans abroad to support national and continental development.
The Chief of Staff made the call at the Ghana Tourism Authority’s (GTA) dinner with the diaspora held in Accra on Sunday as part of the “December in Gh” celebration.
He noted that such engagements helped Africans at home and abroad to better understand their shared responsibility and what it truly means to be African, adding that speeches of that nature served as reminders of the need for unity.
“My choice to be here is not by accident,” he said, explaining that his personal background reflected the deep connections between Ghana and the diaspora.
Mr Percival Segbefia disclosed that his mother has roots in Barbados and that he is married to a woman from Trinidad and Tobago, underscoring the strong historical and cultural ties across the Atlantic.
Beyond personal connections, he said Ghana must do more to embrace its brothers and sisters in the diaspora and tap into the wealth of expertise, influence and networks they represent.
The Chief of Staff observed that many Ghanaians in the diaspora occupy influential positions in politics and business across the world, yet the country has not fully leveraged this unique opportunity.
He encouraged members of the diaspora to take advantage of the opportunity to return and contribute, stressing that it was important not only to feel a sense of belonging but also to recognise that they have a voice and a role to play in national development.
Welcoming guests, the Chief Executive Officer of GTA, Maame Efua Houadjeto, described the dinner as more than a formal gathering, but a moment of homecoming and a celebration of shared purpose and the enduring bond between Ghana and her global family.
She said December in Ghana continued to serve as a strong platform for reconnecting the diaspora to Ghana’s culture, people and the many opportunities the country offers.
She expressed gratitude for the invaluable contributions of the diaspora to Ghana’s development across tourism, the creative arts, business, investment and cultural exchange, noting that their presence reinforced the belief that Ghana was not only a destination but a home.
She said the Authority remained committed to strengthening Ghana’s cultural diplomacy and positioning the country as a leading destination for heritage tourism and global engagement.
Maame Efua Houadjeto expressed the hope that the dinner would serve as a catalyst for deeper collaboration, meaningful partnerships and a renewed collective commitment to telling Ghana’s story to the world.
The event brought together government officials, diaspora representatives and stakeholders in tourism and culture, and concluded with music and cultural performances.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, reaffirming the strong ties and shared values that continue to define relations between Ghana and South Korea.
During the discussions, President Mahama highlighted the historic connection between the two nations, noting their common commitment to democracy, human rights, and a shared historical experience.
He emphasised the opportunities for deeper cooperation, stating that Ghana’s rich natural and human resources, combined with Korea’s technological expertise and innovation, present a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
The President also underscored Ghana’s strategic role within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is headquartered in Accra, positioning the country as a gateway for production and exports into a market of over 1.4 billion people.
President Lee Jae Myung, in his remarks, described Ghana as a country that holds a special place in the hearts of many Koreans, highlighting decades of cooperation in areas such as maritime security, trade, and agriculture.
He also reflected on the longstanding cultural and economic connection symbolised by the popular “Ghana” chocolate brand made from Ghanaian cocoa, which has been enjoyed in Korea for over five decades.
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding people-to-people exchanges, cultural engagement, and economic collaboration, with President Lee noting that President Mahama’s visit provides a timely opportunity to deepen practical cooperation that will directly benefit the citizens of both nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been informed by the relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates that two Ghanaian nationals sustained injuries following a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport earlier today, March 11, 2026.
Against this backdrop, the Government of Ghana has strongly condemned any act that endangers civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, March 11, such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and underscore the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and vital international transport hubs.
Ghana’s Ambassador in the United Arab Emirates has led a delegation of the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai to visit the two injured Ghanaians in hospital.
Their injuries are not critical and are expected to fully recover soon.
“We therefore urge calm as we continue to extend consular assistance and collaborate closely with host authorities,” the statement added.
The Ministry has revealed that they are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities as required.
The Government of Ghana expresses its concern over the incident and conveys its thoughts to the injured individuals and their families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
The Government of Ghana is actively supporting ongoing consultations within the UN to pass a resolution seeking a cessation of hostilities.
According to the Ministry they are offering the necessary leadership and coordination with Ghana’s diplomatic Missions and will provide updates on the matter as and when the need arises.
Government has reiterated its call for Nationals in the Gulf region to always exercise heightened vigilance and comply with directives from Ghanaian Embassies and local authorities.
