Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in two new envoys accredited to Japan and Ethiopia. They are Mr. Humprey Chatio Ajongbah, Ambassador to Japan, and Mr. McArios Akanbeanab Akanbong, Ambassador to Ethiopia. The swearing-in ceremony, which took place in the Credentials Hall of the Presidency in Accra, was attended by Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Affairs Minister; Mr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff at the Presidency; and Mrs. Joyce Bawa Mogari, Presidential Advisor and Special Aide to the President.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama congratulated the two new envoys on their appointments as Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan and Ethiopia, representing Ghana. He emphasized that both have been career diplomats for several years, implying a deep understanding of their roles without the need for extensive coaching typical of political appointees. The President mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had established key performance indicators for the envoys to follow, highlighting that the role of ambassadors now extends beyond diplomacy and protocol to include promoting their country's economic interests abroad.
President Mahama noted the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Japan, mentioning the upcoming 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He referenced the historical connection through Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, who arrived and died in Ghana, strengthening the bilateral ties. The President highlighted Japan's benevolence and generosity towards Ghana, particularly through economic relations and volunteer programs. He urged the new envoy to continue fostering these relations and to advance important projects like the Volivo Bridge over the Southern Volta River.
Addressing Ghana-Ethiopia relations, President Mahama described Addis Ababa as the de facto capital of Africa, noting the annual African Union (AU) meetings held there. He emphasized the significance of Mr. Akanbong's appointment as Ghana is set to assume a one-year chairmanship of the AU, which will involve significant responsibilities as Ambassador. The President acknowledged the criticisms of the AU's effectiveness and expressed confidence in the new envoy's ability to address these challenges.
In his response, Mr. McArios Akanbeanab Akanbong expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleague to President Mahama for the opportunity to serve the nation. He assured the President of their commitment to represent Ghana with honor, dignity, and integrity, and to diligently work to secure the country's core interests as outlined in the Constitution and the President's agenda.