Accra: The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the government will provide consular services to Ghanaian soccer fans traveling to the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This support will be available to fans and enthusiasts regardless of their political affiliation.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ablakwa made this assurance during the parliamentary approval of the Ministry's budget, which is set to cover expenditures until December 31, 2026. He outlined plans for the Ministry to acquire property to host Ghanaian diplomatic missions abroad, aiming to eliminate the annual $15 million rent paid to private landlords.
Mr. Ablakwa also addressed infrastructure concerns, stating that the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) would undergo renovations instead of demolition. This decision follows recommendations from Engineering Services Limited after a structural integrity audit. He reiterated that the Ministry's decisions would continue to prioritize national interest.
Parliament has approved a budget of GHS 1.6 billion for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the fiscal year 2026.