James Gyakye Quayson

On Friday, 30th October 2026, I had the honour of serving as Special Guest Speaker at the historic inaugural Open D.O.O.R. National Dialogue, held under the theme, “Come Home. Stay Home. Build Home.” The Decade of Our Repatriation (D.O.O.R.), an initiative spearheaded by Professor Ɔbenfo Bakari Kambon in partnership with the College of Humanities, University of Ghana, seeks to translate decades of conversations on repatriation, Pan-Africanism and diaspora engagement into practical and sustainable actions that advance cultural reconnection, socio-economic integration, investment and knowledge exchange. In my address, I emphasised that diaspora engagement must go beyond attracting investment and increasing visitor numbers. It must be rooted in building enduring relationships founded on trust, mutual respect, shared identity and a common purpose. I further underscored Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its position as the gateway of return to Africa, a hub of innovation and opportunity, and a welcoming home for people of African descent across the world. This requires creating an enabling environment where our shared heritage is celebrated, opportunities are expanded, and the talents and contributions of the diaspora are harnessed for national development. I expressed the hope that the Open D.O.O.R. initiative would serve as a catalyst for renewed commitment and meaningful collaboration between Ghana and the African diaspora, translating our shared aspirations into lasting partnerships and tangible outcomes. Our engagement with the diaspora must not end with a homecoming; it must be about building a home together.

On Wednesday, 4th November 2026, I received a courtesy call from the family of the late Akpene Diamond Tetteh, a 37-year-old Ghanaian who was tragically murdered in Savannah, Georgia, in the United States of America. The delegation, led by Mr. Chris Ackummey, Esq., briefed me on the circumstances surrounding her untimely death and appealed for the Government of Ghana’s support in ensuring that justice is served. According to the family, Akpene was shot by two 15-year-old juveniles on 12th February 2026, barely weeks after completing her PhD. One of the alleged perpetrators has since been arrested and arraigned before a court in Savannah, Georgia, on 3rd March 2026, with proceedings currently ongoing. The second suspect remains at large. I expressed the Government of Ghana’s deep concern over this tragic incident and extended my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. I assured them of the Government’s commitment to supporting their pursuit of justice and ensuring that the matter receives the necessary attention through the appropriate diplomatic and consular channels. I further reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to the protection, safety and welfare of Ghanaians abroad, irrespective of their location. I also indicated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would provide the necessary assistance within its mandate and explore all available avenues for appropriate government support to the family. I emphasised that the Government stands in solidarity with the family during this difficult period and remains committed to working through the relevant channels to ensure that justice is pursued.

On Tuesday, 27th October 2026, I received a delegation from the Foreign Policy Committee of the Danish Parliament, led by its Chairperson, Mr. Karsten Hønge, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. Our discussions focused on strengthening Ghana-Denmark relations, building on our longstanding historical ties, and exploring opportunities for deeper cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, technology, renewable energy and industrial development. I emphasised Ghana’s commitment to partnerships that promote local manufacturing, technology transfer, value addition and job creation, particularly for the youth. I also highlighted the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in expanding trade and investment. We further exchanged views on Ghana’s relations with the European Union, regional security developments in the Sahel, peacekeeping and youth participation in democratic governance. I reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to dialogue, diplomacy and mutually beneficial international partnerships as we work towards sustainable development and shared prosperity. The engagement provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen our bilateral relations and identify areas of common interest for future cooperation.

I was pleased to receive the Ambassador of Libya to Ghana, H.E. Khemees Hassan, who paid a courtesy call on me at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra on Wednesday, 28th October 2026. Our discussions focused on Ghana’s participation in the upcoming 22nd Ordinary Session of the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) in Tripoli, as well as strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and migration management. We also explored proposed labour mobility and visa waiver agreements to facilitate safe migration and ease travel between our two countries. I reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relations with Libya and emphasised the need to safeguard the welfare and rights of Ghanaians living and working there. I also called for Libya’s support as H.E. President John Dramani Mahama prepares to chair the African Union. We remain committed to deepening Ghana-Libya relations and working together to advance peace, stability and sustainable development across Africa.

On Thursday, 29th October 2026, I received the Open Letters of the newly appointed Director of the United Nations University Institute for Natural Resources in Africa (UNU-INRA), Dr. Richard Munang, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. Our discussions focused on strengthening UNU-INRA as a truly African institution capable of providing research-driven policy solutions to the continent’s environmental and development challenges. Dr. Munang highlighted the Institute’s ongoing initiatives in collaboration with Ghanaian institutions, particularly in flood early-warning systems, climate change, sustainable mining, water-resource protection and carbon markets. I welcomed these initiatives and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting efforts that promote greater African ownership, institutional sustainability and investment in research and innovation. I also emphasised the need for African countries to take greater responsibility for institutions established to address our collective challenges, noting that issues such as environmental degradation, flooding and water pollution require coordinated continental action. I assured Dr. Munang of the Ministry’s support and encouraged deeper collaboration with relevant Ghanaian institutions to translate research into practical solutions for sustainable development.

On Thursday, 29th October 2026, I had the honour of symbolically swearing in a group of young Ghanaians as Junior Ambassadors of Ghana at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra, ahead of their participation in a cultural exchange programme organised in collaboration with the Diaspora African Forum, under the leadership of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Erieka Bennett, Head of Mission. The initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing a generation of patriotic, culturally conscious and globally minded young Ghanaians who can confidently represent our nation on the international stage. In my remarks, I encouraged the Junior Ambassadors to embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm, discipline and a deep sense of responsibility. I reminded them that they are not merely participants in an exchange programme but representatives of Ghana whose conduct, values and interactions will help shape the image of our country abroad. I further urged them to take pride in our rich cultural heritage, traditions and national identity while remaining open to learning from other cultures and building meaningful international relationships. Ghana’s foreign policy places great importance on people-to-people engagement, cultural diplomacy and the empowerment of young people as agents of international cooperation and understanding. I am confident that these young ambassadors will serve as worthy representatives of Ghana, projecting our values, culture and national identity with pride wherever they go. The future of Ghana’s international relations must also be built on the confidence, character and global outlook of our young people.

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Post 1/2 On Tuesday, 27th October 2026, I had the honour of delivering the keynote address at the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of United Nations Day, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the UN Office in Ghana, under the theme “UN at 81: Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation – A United Nations That Delivers for All.” I reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to multilateralism, international cooperation and the principles of the UN Charter. I emphasised the need to restore public trust through tangible results, respect for international law and comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to ensure permanent African representation. I also paid tribute to Ghanaian peacekeepers for their longstanding contributions to global peace and security, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing emerging security threats, and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advancing sustainable development and reparatory justice. As we mark 81 years of the United Nations, Ghana remains committed to building a more inclusive, accountable and effective multilateral system that promotes peace, justice and prosperity for all.

The mandate is clear, the task is urgent, and victory lies in our unity and hard work. Congratulations, and let the work begin!

Best wishes to all delegates

Today in Shanghai, China, I had the honour of accompanying H.E. Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, to the 2026 Global South Academic Forum, held under the theme “Global South Political Parties: Governance and Modernisation.” The Forum provided an important platform to discuss effective governance, institutional development, economic transformation, and stronger cooperation among countries of the Global South. Drawing inspiration from the Pan-African vision of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, we reflected on the need to move beyond political independence towards building strong institutions, productive economies, and systems that serve our people. We also explored lessons from China’s development experience, the importance of collaboration in education, research and technology, and the need for a more equitable international order that gives the Global South a stronger voice in global decision-making. As Ghana continues to strengthen its international partnerships, we remain committed to constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and practical cooperation that advances our national interests and shared development goals. Together, through partnership and mutual learning, we can build a more inclusive, prosperous and equitable future for the Global South. #Ghana #GlobalSouth #SouthSouthCooperation #Diplomacy #Governance #ChinaGhanaRelations

Yesterday , I joined stakeholders to launch the “ECOWAS for All” National Citizens Engagement and Public Sensitisation Campaign, an initiative aimed at bringing ECOWAS closer to the ordinary Ghanaian. For over five decades, ECOWAS has contributed significantly to peace, security, free movement, trade and regional cooperation. Yet, many citizens remain unaware of the rights, opportunities and benefits available to them. Through this campaign, we will take ECOWAS directly to our markets, borders, schools and communities, using accessible platforms and local languages to engage traders, transport operators, students, businesses and citizens. Our goal is simple: to bridge the gap between ECOWAS policies and the everyday experiences of our people. As Ghana continues to champion regional integration and the vision of ECOWAS Vision 2050, we must ensure that ECOWAS is not only a Community of States, but truly a Community of People. ECOWAS must work for all, and every citizen must know how to benefit from it.

On 23rd September 2026, I had the honour of engaging with His Excellency Dr. Lahcen Mahraoui, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Dublin and Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Ireland. The engagement formed part of my official working visit to Ireland ahead of the re-opening of Ghana’s Mission in the country. It provided an opportunity for us to exchange views on matters of mutual interest, strengthen bilateral relations, and explore avenues for deeper cooperation within the African diplomatic community in Dublin. Our discussions reaffirmed the importance of constructive dialogue, solidarity and collaboration in advancing our shared interests and strengthening diplomatic partnerships. Ghana remains committed to deepening its engagement with friendly countries and diplomatic partners as we work together to promote mutual understanding, cooperation and shared prosperity

Happy Founder’s Day 🇬🇭

I have provided mattresses and student boxes to 1,200 BECE graduates who have gained admission to Senior High School, helping to ease the burden on parents and guardians as our young people begin the next chapter of their education. Our children are our future. Assin North’s future is worth investing in.

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Post 1/2 As your Member of Parliament, I remain committed to putting the educational needs of our children at the heart of my service to the people of Assin North. As part of this commitment, I have supported 1,200 BECE graduates who have gained admission to Senior High School with student mattresses and boxes to help them prepare for the next stage of their educational journey. This support is aimed at easing the financial burden on parents and guardians while ensuring that our young people have the basic necessities they need to begin their secondary education with confidence. Our children are our future. Their education is our collective responsibility. I will continue to champion initiatives that create opportunities, support families, empower our youth, and contribute to the development of every community across Assin North Constituency. Together, let us continue to invest in our children. Together, let us build a stronger and more prosperous Assin North.