Ablakwa cancels Foreign Affairs ministry ‘surprise welcome’ after UN Reparations victory

The Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, has called off plans by staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to organise a ceremonial “surprise welcome” for him at Kotoka International Airport, emphasizing that Ghana’s recent diplomatic success at the United Nations is a national, rather than personal, achievement.

Ahead of his return to Ghana, Mr. Ablakwa disclosed on Facebook that he had learned of the internal arrangements, a tradition often used by ministries to mark significant national milestones. He instructed that the planned reception be cancelled immediately, while expressing gratitude to his staff for their thoughtfulness.

“I have expressed my appreciation to management for their thoughtful gesture and instructed that all such plans to offer me a surprise welcome at the Airport be cancelled immediately,” he wrote.

Role in Historic UN Resolution

Mr. Ablakwa was part of President John Dramani Mahama’s delegation to the United Nations, where Ghana played a pivotal role in advancing a historic resolution on reparations for the transatlantic slave trade. The resolution, spearheaded by President Mahama, was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, following a decisive vote. The move has been hailed as a major milestone in global efforts toward reparatory justice and historical reconciliation.

Upon his return to Ghana on Sunday, March 29, President Mahama publicly commended Mr. Ablakwa and the Foreign Affairs team for their tireless efforts. “I gave the guidance, but they did the leg work. The thousands of kilometres he travelled from country to country, canvassing support for this resolution, must be acknowledged,” the President said.

Despite the praise, Mr. Ablakwa was quick to underscore that the success belongs to the nation as a whole, not any individual. “This is not a personal victory, and besides, there is more work ahead of us,” he stated.

Appreciation for Ministry Staff and Future Commitment

Mr. Ablakwa also took the opportunity to recognize the dedication of the Ministry’s personnel, describing them as “dynamic and talented.” He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advancing its interests on the global stage under President Mahama’s leadership.

“God bless all our dynamic and talented staff at the MFA and bless our dear country even more to keep winning on the global stage under the guidance of President John Mahama,” he added.

Ghana’s successful push at the United Nations has drawn international attention, positioning the country as a leading voice in renewed global conversations on reparations and historical justice, and highlighting the effectiveness of strategic diplomacy in advancing national interests.