Ghana’s Parliament has approved a budget of approximately GH¢1.49 billion for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support its programs and activities for the 2025 financial year. This significant allocation aims to address key challenges, including the substantial expenditure on rented properties abroad, which currently costs the government $15 million annually. To enhance operational efficiency, the Ministry plans to transition toward owning its properties.

Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, outlined key initiatives within the budget. These include settling a GH¢340 million debt inherited from the previous administration, reducing the cost of a 32-page passport booklet from GH¢500 to GH¢350, and recruiting 100 staff members to facilitate 24/7 passport processing with a targeted seven-day delivery period.

Additionally, plans are underway to assess the structural integrity of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The Architectural and Engineering Services Limited is expected to submit a comprehensive report within three months. Constructed 34 years ago, the AICC remains a vital venue for hosting national and international events and falls under the supervision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Despite a 30% budget cut, the Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the Ministry’s budget priorities to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and effectively support its diplomatic engagements. Furthermore, the Ministry intends to establish a new mission in Budapest, Hungary, to better serve Ghanaians in the region. This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s global presence and promote the country’s interests abroad.

In an internal exclusive interview with Eamn The Hotseat Host: Eamn highlighted how government’s significant investment in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscores the crucial role of Ghana’s foreign missions and the need for these missions to drive technological advancement through strategic bilateral agreements. He said the key priority should be fostering trade agreements that support local industries and mitigate the economic impact of currency fluctuations, which contribute to inflation due to Ghana’s heavy reliance on imported goods.

His commentary highlights the importance of robust trade agreements that bolster local industrial manufacturing, aiming to stabilize prices and drive sustainable economic growth—ultimately reducing Ghana’s dependence on imports.

Source: Ghana News Agency (GNA) and NSG Business News Team.

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