President John Mahama has commissioned a new Chancery for Ghana’s Embassy in Addis Ababa, describing it as a renewed commitment to African unity and stronger ties with Ethiopia.
The ceremony, held in the Ethiopian capital, marks the completion of a project that began nearly a decade ago and faced significant economic setbacks before being revived.
In a brief but pointed address, President Mahama said the new building represents more than bricks and mortar. According to him, it reflects Ghana’s enduring belief in multilateral cooperation and its continued support for the vision of the African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa.
He noted that the commissioning also signals Ghana’s readiness to assume the Chairmanship of the African Union next year, a responsibility he said the country is prepared to undertake with seriousness and purpose.
The project traces its origins to 2016, when funding was secured under the SG SSB facility. Construction later stalled due to economic difficulties, delaying completion. The current administration resumed work and settled outstanding Interim Payment Certificates last year, allowing the project to move forward to completion.
President Mahama expressed gratitude to Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Dr Gedion Timothewos, for attending the ceremony as a special guest. He also commended officials at Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, staff of the Embassy in Addis Ababa, as well as the Ethiopian contractor and Ghanaian consultant who oversaw the work.
For Ghanaian diplomats and citizens in Ethiopia, the new Chancery is expected to provide improved working conditions and enhanced consular services, while symbolising Ghana’s long standing diplomatic presence in the heart of Africa.
