President John Dramani Mahama has officially commissioned Ghana’s new chancery in Addis Ababa, a landmark project aimed at deepening bilateral relations with Ethiopia and enhancing Ghana’s diplomatic engagement at the African Union (AU) headquarters.
The chancery, strategically located opposite Bisrate St. Gabriel Church, represents a major step in Ghana’s long-term strategy to end the costly practice of renting mission buildings abroad. This approach is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to end the annual $15 million spent on renting embassies spaces abroad.
Media Reports indicate the project, originally valued at $7.5 million, has risen to $9.8 million due to execution delays due to economic challenges, the current government’s resumption and payment of outstanding IPCs last year. an increase of approximately $2.3 million.
President Mahama expressed satisfaction at the completion of the project, noting that it reflects Ghana’s commitment to securing its diplomatic infrastructure. He mentioned that over a year ago, he felt ashamed when he realized the project had stalled, despite securing funding from the Société Générale – Social Security Bank in 2016, during the tenure of former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hannah Tetteh.
The chancery was constructed by MEEG Construction, a leading Ethiopian construction firm, which President Mahama indicated he had contracted to complete the project as part of Ghana’s effort to strengthen its diplomatic engagement and Pan-African role on the continent.
Ablakwa highlighted the building as more than just a physical structure, describing it as a symbol of Ghana’s commitment to multilateralism and its dedication to the unity of Africa. He noted that the chancery further reinforces President Mahama’s readiness to assume the Chairmanship of the African Union in 2026.
“This magnificent edifice is more than just a new building, it is an affirmation of Ghana’s firm belief in multilateralism, our demonstrable commitment to the African Union vision and our strong resolve to deepen the cherished bilateral relations with the friendly nation of Ethiopia.” he said.
President Mahama also pledged to settle outstanding debts owed to contractors, vowing to engage Minister of Finance, Cassiel Ato Forson, to ensure Ghana honors its financial obligations.
The project underscores the historical and strategic significance of Ghana–Ethiopia relations, which date back to the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union. Mahama highlighted that the chancery is a tangible demonstration of Ghana’s readiness to assume the Chairmanship of the African Union in 2026, further cementing its role in promoting continental unity and multilateral diplomacy.
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