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President John Dramani Mahama has officially inaugurated Ghana’s newly completed chancery building in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a project valued at $9.8 million.
The commissioning took place after the President’s participation in the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union, marking a significant milestone for Ghana’s diplomatic presence in East Africa. The modern facility will serve as Ghana’s mission to Ethiopia as well as its permanent mission to the African Union.
Funding for the project was originally secured during President Mahama’s first term in office. Although construction progressed after he left office, the work later stalled. Following a visit to the site in 2025 after the AU summit, the President pledged additional resources to fast-track completion within a year.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that the total cost of the project rose from about $7.5 million to $9.8 million. He attributed the increase to delays and currency depreciation over the construction period.
President Mahama described the new chancery as befitting Ghana’s stature in Ethiopia, particularly as a founding member of the African Union. He noted that the facility reflects Ghana’s enduring commitment to continental unity and diplomacy.
“This building represents not only our mission to Ethiopia but also our permanent mission to the African Union,” the President stated, adding that it symbolizes the strong bonds between the two countries.
He commended the Ethiopian government for its cooperation and lauded the country’s transformation in recent years. The Ethiopian Foreign Minister, in remarks at the event, described the project as a landmark in bilateral relations and said the new edifice further enhances Addis Ababa’s status as a diplomatic hub.
As part of broader reforms at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, more than 70 of Ghana’s missions abroad are expected to secure permanent office facilities to reduce the country’s annual rent burden, currently estimated at $15 million.
President Mahama also directed the Ministry to ensure the completion of a similar chancery project in Brazil, underscoring government’s determination to strengthen Ghana’s diplomatic infrastructure worldwide.
Officials at the ceremony said the Addis Ababa chancery stands as a testament to Ghana’s continental vision and honors the legacy of pan-African leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah, a founding figure of the African Union.
Yaw Boagyan
