The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has officially commissioned the annex building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration in Accra.
The six-storey state-of-the-art facility, funded through a partnership with the People’s Republic of China, is expected to enhance the Ministry’s operations and reinforce Ghana’s international presence.
The building, right in the heart of Accra was commissioned on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at the colorful.
The President extended his gratitude to the government of China for its invaluable contribution and commended the Yangjian Group and Maswab Consult for their professionalism in delivering the project.
“This new annex building represents our devotion to democracy and the enhancement of our foreign service. Let this facility inspire greater productivity, innovation and a renewed sense of purpose,” President Akufo-Addo said as he officially commissioned the building.
He also acknowledged the efforts of former Ambassador Edward Boateng for his instrumental role in realizing the initiative.
DIPLOMATIC EXCELLENCE
President Akufo-Addo, reflecting on his tenure as Foreign Minister from 2003 to 2007, lauded the significance of the Ministry in shaping Ghana’s foreign policy and international standing.
He said that a robust and efficient foreign service is the lifeblood of any nation aspiring to greatness.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted recent achievements, such as the establishment of the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) in August 2023, Ghana’s tenure on the United Nations Security Council and initiatives like the Accra Initiative, which align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The President celebrated Ghana’s peaceful 2024 general elections and commended Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey for her historic achievement as the first African woman to serve as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations.
DIPLOMATIC PROGRESS
On her part, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, highlighted that the commissioning of the facility was a testament to the dedication of President Akufo-Addo’s administration to advancing diplomatic efforts and enhancing governance.
“I would like to express my profound appreciation for the healthy bilateral relations with the People’s Republic of China, which made it possible to agree on the grant for this project,” she noted. ”
The Minister commended the Zhangjiang Group Company Limited, the same contractor responsible for the main ministry building, for completing the annex in record time since beginning construction in March 2023. She also praised the consultants and local partners who contributed to the project.
LEADERSHIP
The Minister expressed her gratitude to current and former deputy ministers, chief directors, and officers for their unwavering support during her tenure.
She noted that the annex reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the Ministry’s growing operational needs and expanding Ghana’s diplomatic engagement.
“Indeed, my time as Minister has been profoundly rewarding, largely due to the collective efforts of each one of you. It is my fervent hope that this facility will drive sustainable development and cooperation towards the expansion of Ghana’s diplomatic reach,” she concluded.
COMPONENT
The new facility boasts 142 office spaces, a basement car park equipped with a transponder access system, a flag room to display the flags of Ghana’s diplomatic partners, a clinic, a fitness centre, and a press centre.
It also includes a banquet hall for 300 persons, dining and conference areas on each floor, and a state-of-the-art auditorium with a capacity of 300.
“This facility symbolises our dedication to fostering international cooperation and will serve as a cornerstone for future diplomatic activities,” Ayorkor Botchwey added.
