Foreign Minister vows to revamp abandoned state properties in Benin

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is committed to protecting Ghana’s diplomatic properties abroad. He stated that no government-owned property in Benin will be sold during his time in office.

This assurance is part of efforts to restore Ghana’s mission facilities in Benin. Mr. Ablakwa visited several properties acquired by Ghana in 1999 during a working tour. One facility has been abandoned since 2019 due to fire damage.

The building and others have deteriorated over time. Currently, Ghana owns six properties in Benin, with only one lying idle. The Minister expressed concern about defects found in some recently acquired structures.

These issues have forced mission staff to find alternative housing at higher rental rates. This situation places an unnecessary financial burden on the diplomatic service.

Mr. Ablakwa promised that measures would be taken to renovate or rebuild affected buildings. These actions are part of the administration's commitment to protect national assets and use them effectively.

He reiterated, “No property will be sold under my watch.”