President John Dramani Mahama has formally sworn in the third batch of high commissioners and ambassadors-designate, charging them to serve with integrity, strategic focus and measurable results in advancing Ghana’s national interests.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at the Flagstaff House, President Mahama described the appointments as “not merely an honour, but a call to high national service,” undertaken under his constitutional authority.

“From this moment onwards, you must embody Ghana’s unity, its values, credibility and aspirations,” he said, stressing that their conduct must be “national in character, above partisanship and firmly guided by the supreme interests of the Republic of Ghana.”

President Mahama noted that the envoys assume office at a time of profound global change marked by geopolitical tensions, economic realignments, technological disruption and climate pressures.

In such a climate, he said, Ghana expects “sound judgment, strategic thinking, disciplined leadership and unwavering commitment to our national interests.”

He underscored Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy and responsible global actor, built through decades of national sacrifice, and tasked the envoys with safeguarding and strengthening that image.

“You must project Ghana as a dependable partner, a predictable destination for business and tourism, and a principled yet pragmatic voice in regional and global affairs,” he said.

Reaffirming Ghana’s Pan-African foreign policy tradition, President Mahama urged the envoys to articulate “a Ghanaian voice that speaks with clarity, confidence and conviction” in pursuit of a respected, prosperous and united Africa.

He emphasised that diplomacy must deliver tangible benefits to citizens.

“Ghana’s diplomacy will be judged not by ceremony alone, but by results,” he stated, urging the envoys to prioritise economic diplomacy through investment attraction, export expansion, tourism promotion, innovation and technology transfer.

President Mahama announced the introduction of a performance management framework for heads of mission, anchored in clear key performance indicators. Performance, he said, will be assessed based on outcomes in trade and investment, quality of partnerships, efficiency of consular services, engagement with the diaspora and prudent management of public resources.

He also highlighted new cost-containment measures, including rent ceilings for missions, and demanded strict compliance.

“Ghana’s diplomacy must be known not only for excellence, but also for value for money, transparency and responsible stewardship,” he said.

Touching on conduct and ethics, the President reminded the envoys that diplomacy is ultimately about character. “You are the living faces of Ghana. Conduct yourselves with dignity, discipline and humility,” he urged, calling for honesty, professionalism and respect.

He further encouraged strong engagement with the Ghanaian diaspora, describing it as “a vital national asset,” and called on missions to be welcoming, responsive and humane in addressing their concerns.

President Mahama concluded by congratulating the envoys and expressing confidence in their capacity to deliver.

“Serve with purpose. Let your tenure be marked by results, stronger partnerships, expanded opportunities for our people and a higher standing for Ghana in the community of nations,” he said, invoking divine guidance and blessings for their service and for the country.

New envoys:

1. Alhaji Said Saleh Sinare

Ambassador-designate of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

2. Lt. Col. Al Hajj Umar Sanda Ahmed

Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Mali

3. M r . Kofi Attor

Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Cuba

4. Mr. Emmanuel Opeku

Ambassador-in-Situ

5. Mrs. Regina Appiah-Sam

High Commissioner-designate of the Republic of Malta