Become Ghana’s salespersons – Mahama urges new ambassadors
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
President John Dramani Mahama has tasked Ghana’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to go beyond the traditional role of diplomacy and become the nation’s “salespersons” in their host countries.
The envoys, he said, must actively market Ghana as Africa’s next hub for trade, technology and the creative economy.
Addressing the group before their departure to assume foreign missions, the President underscored the need for a new form of economic diplomacy that emphasises investment promotion, storytelling and nation branding.
“Diplomacy involves more than just negotiation. It also encompasses managing perceptions and safeguarding your nation’s reputation. Distinguished Ambassadors and High Commissioners, your foremost responsibility is to tell Ghana’s story with conviction and credibility,” President Mahama charged.
He made it clear that the envoys’ duties must transcend ceremonial engagements and focus on concrete economic outcomes.
“You must present Ghana as, one, a stable democracy with a proven record of peaceful transitions; two, a land of opportunity open for trade and investment; three, a hub for technology innovation and a creative economy; and four, a vibrant cultural nation and a good tourist destination,” President outlined.
According to the President, positioning Ghana in this way will assure global investors that the country offers low political risk, high potential for returns and a fertile environment for innovation.
“You are the frontline marketers of Ghana’s economic potential,” he noted, stressing that every mission abroad must function as both a diplomatic office and an investment promotion centre.
If successful, the President argued, the missions abroad could catalyse the inflows of FDI, partnerships and technology transfers needed to accelerate domestic growth and create sustainable jobs.
“Tell Ghana’s story with conviction, credibility and pride, and let that story translate into opportunities for our people,” he added.
