'I’m getting ready to leave Ghana' - US Ambassador Virginia Palmer reveals ending her tour of duty

United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia E. Palmer, is preparing to leave Ghana.

She is completing her three-year tour of duty. A replacement will be appointed soon. However, her next assignment at the Department of State is unclear.

Before becoming ambassador in April 2022, Palmer served as acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Resources. She oversaw U.S. foreign policy on energy, climate, and national security.

From 2015 to 2019, she was the U.S. Ambassador to Malawi. There, she managed a bilateral assistance budget over $500 million and eleven U.S. government agencies.

Palmer also worked in South Africa from 2011 to 2014 as Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d’Affaires. She supervised the work of 28 U.S. government agencies during that time.

In Vietnam from 2008 to 2011, she promoted trade initiatives and helped with dioxin remediation efforts.

From 2005 to 2008, Palmer was the Deputy Coordinator for Counterterrorism at the State Department. She focused on terrorist finance issues and regional initiatives.

Her other roles included assignments in Kenya, Canada, Zimbabwe, China, and Hong Kong. She worked on political-military affairs and various human rights issues.

In an interview with Luv FM in Kumasi, Palmer expressed sadness about leaving Ghana. She stated her respect for the country’s tolerance.

Palmer noted that interfaith relations in Ghana are vibrant and respectful. This contributes to stability and prosperity in the nation.

Recently, Ambassador Palmer highlighted Ghana-US relations amid President Trump's tariffs on many countries exporting to America.

Despite these changes in trade relations, she emphasized that Ghana remains an important ally for the United States.

“No matter how we express it or focus changes,” she said, “Ghana is a key partner.”

The United States supports Ghana's economic recovery through institutions like the World Bank and IMF.

Palmer mentioned an upcoming trade mission but could not provide details yet.