Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C reopened

Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C. will reopen on May 29, 2025. The embassy was closed due to alleged corrupt practices by staff.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the closure. He stated that the embassy would be closed for a few days. This is to finalize ongoing restructuring and system improvements.

Ablakwa shared details on X about a special audit team. This team investigated the alleged corruption at the embassy. They were formed with support from President Mahama.

He mentioned the immediate dismissal of Mr. Fred Kwarteng. Kwarteng worked in the IT department since August 11, 2017. He created an unauthorized link on the embassy's website.

This link diverted applicants to his company, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC). He charged extra fees without ministry approval, ranging from $29.75 to $60 per applicant. Investigations revealed this scheme lasted at least five years.

The Attorney-General has been informed for possible prosecution and fund recovery. All Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff at the Washington embassy have been recalled immediately.

The IT department has been dissolved, and all local staff suspended. On May 27, 2025, a new team of diplomats was assigned to the mission.

This team includes senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their goal is to restore integrity and complete structural reforms at the embassy.

An IT team has also been deployed to reconfigure the embassy's website and payment systems.