Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C set to reopen on May 29

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 was formed with President Mahama's support to investigate corruption at the embassy.

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 case has been reported to the Attorney-General for prosecution and fund recovery. Ablakwa also noted that all Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff have been recalled immediately.

The embassy’s IT department has been dissolved, and local staff suspended. On May 27, 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement about new diplomats taking over operations.

A senior official from the Ministry will lead this new team. Their goal is to restore integrity and complete structural reforms at the embassy.

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