Family of late diplomat James Victor Gbeho officially notifies Mahama of his passing

The family of the late James Victor Gbeho has paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama to formally inform him of the distinguished diplomat’s passing.

According to the family, the visit was necessary to fulfil both cultural and diplomatic traditions, which require the Head of State to be officially notified before a public announcement is made regarding the death of a prominent national figure.

Ambassador Gbeho was widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most accomplished diplomats and statesmen, with a career spanning several decades in national, regional, and international service.

Throughout his public life, he held several key positions, including:

• Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs
• Member of Parliament for the Anlo Constituency
• President of the ECOWAS Commission
• Executive Secretary of ECOWAS
• Ghanaian diplomat at the United Nations in New York and other international missions

His contributions to regional integration, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international cooperation earned him widespread respect across West Africa and beyond.

During the meeting, President Mahama expressed his condolences to the bereaved family and reflected on Ambassador Gbeho’s immense contributions to Ghana, the West African sub-region, and the international community.

The President acknowledged his legacy as a dedicated public servant whose work helped strengthen Ghana’s diplomatic standing and advance regional cooperation through ECOWAS and other international institutions.

Ambassador Gbeho played a significant role in promoting regional unity and economic cooperation in West Africa. His tenure at ECOWAS was marked by efforts to deepen integration among member states and strengthen the organisation’s role in addressing political and security challenges across the region.

He was also recognised for his diplomatic engagements at the United Nations and for representing Ghana’s interests on the global stage with distinction.

The family has indicated that funeral arrangements and other details regarding memorial activities will be announced at a later date.

His passing marks the loss of a respected diplomat, statesman, and advocate for regional cooperation whose contributions helped shape Ghana’s foreign policy and West Africa’s integration agenda.