President Mahama praises Foreign Affairs Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa during Volta Region tour | Discuss Ghana

The bond between President John Dramani Mahama and his chief diplomat is stronger than ever. During his high-profile "#ResettingGhana" working tour of the Volta Region, President Mahama paid a glowing, public tribute to his Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, crediting him with driving Ghana’s recent major successes on the global stage. Addressing traditional leaders, youth groups, and residents in the region, the President proudly highlighted the North Tongu MP’s incredible work ethic, stating that while he provided the vision and leadership from the presidency, Ablakwa did the heavy lifting and diplomatic legwork that secured Ghana’s recent historic international milestones.

The historic UN resolution on reparatory justice

The President's praise is deeply rooted in a massive, historic diplomatic victory achieved in March 2026:

The Transatlantic Slave Trade Resolution: Under Mahama's leadership as the African Union (AU) Champion for Reparations, Ghana spearheaded a bold motion at the United Nations General Assembly. On March 25, 2026, the UN officially adopted Resolution A/80/L.48, formally declaring the transatlantic slave trade a crime against humanity and opening the door for global reparations.

Ablakwa’s Masterclass in Lobbying: The resolution succeeded where previous global attempts (like the 1993 Abuja Proclamation) had stalled. Mahama revealed that Ablakwa and his team worked tirelessly behind the scenes, building a coalition of 123 nations, including heavy support from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the African Union, to pass the vote.

Humility in Leadership: Sharing the spotlight, Mahama told the audience: "I gave the guidance, but they did the legwork. Our ancestors are rejoicing because of the work Samuel and the team put in to secure this historic platform for reparatory justice."