President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated a new Ghana Chancery in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, valued at $9.8 million.
Funding for the project was secured during his first tenure as president. Work continued after he left office but later stalled under the Nana Addo administration. President Mahama committed additional resources for completion of the facility during his official visit to the project after AU summit in 2025 after he took office again.
According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the cost of the project increased from over $7.5 million to $9.8 million, largely due to delays and depreciation.
The president described the new chancery as “befitting” of Ghana’s status in Ethiopia, particularly as one of the founding members of the African Union.
The president commissioned the facility after his official engagements at the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union.
He also directed the Foreign Affairs Ministry to ensure a similar project is completed in Brazil.
As part of the Ministry’s broader objectives, more than 70 of Ghana’s missions abroad are expected to acquire permanent facilities to reduce the heavy burden of annual rent payments, estimated at $15 million.
President Mahama said the project reflects the strength of Ghana–Ethiopia relations.
“This will serve as our mission to Ethiopia and our permanent mission to the African Union,” the President stated.
He commended the Ethiopian government for strengthening ties with Ghana and praised Ethiopia’s transformation, expressing appreciation to the country’s leadership.
Ablakwa also praised the contractor for patience and resilience throughout the construction period and thanked President Mahama for prioritising the Foreign Ministry in his development agenda.
For his part, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister said the new edifice enhances Addis Ababa’s appeal and marks an important milestone in bilateral relations.
“This is a significant milestone in the relationship between our two countries,” he said.
He added that the project reflects Ghana’s continental vision and will serve as a hub for diplomats carrying forward the proud legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, one of the founding fathers of the African Union.
Story by: Fred Duhoe/Addis Ababa
