The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that five distinguished Ghanaians will be honoured as envoys of the upcoming 2025 Diaspora Summit.
Each of the envoys will receive a diplomatic passport in recognition of their contributions to promoting African unity, culture, and identity.
The honourees, Wode Maya, Lady Dentaa Amoateng, Rocky Dawuni, Anita Erskine, and Ibrahim Mahama, have been carefully selected for their outstanding achievements and enduring commitment to advancing the African story on the global stage.
The Ghana Diaspora Summit 2025, scheduled for December 19–20 in Accra, will convene leaders from government, business, civil society, and the diaspora on the theme: “Resetting Ghana: The Diaspora as the 17th Region.”
It will feature plenary sessions on investment, innovation, and culture, as well as a reparations conference, culminating in a gala to celebrate the contributions of Africans worldwide.
Foreign Minister Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, unveiling the list at the media launch of the summit in Accra, said the recognition was not only symbolic but also strategic, as these individuals had already been playing vital roles in mobilising people of African descent worldwide.
“They are doing so well to market Ghana, market the continent, and we believe it is time to celebrate them and support their work with enhanced diplomatic status,” he said, thus honouring them with a diplomatic passport.
Wode Maya, born Berthold Kobby Winkler Ackon, is one of Africa’s most influential digital creators.
Through his widely followed YouTube channel, he has spotlighted African tourism, entrepreneurship, and innovation, breaking stereotypes and encouraging Africans abroad to reconnect with the continent.
His engaging storytelling has attracted millions of viewers, helping to reshape global perceptions of Africa.
Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE, widely known as Lady Dentaa, is a Ghanaian-British entrepreneur and philanthropist who has dedicated her career to promoting Ghana and Africa in the UK and beyond.
Founder of the Ghana UK-Based Achievement (GUBA) Awards, she has created platforms to celebrate excellence in the diaspora, foster cultural ties, and inspire investment in Ghana.
Her leadership has made her one of the foremost voices connecting diaspora communities with the homeland.
Rocky Dawuni, the Grammy-nominated reggae star and global activist, has long used music as a tool for social change and cultural diplomacy.
Known for his powerful songs that promote peace, justice, and African pride, Mr Dawuni has also served as a UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment.
His artistry and advocacy have made him an international symbol of Ghanaian creativity and resilience.
Anita Erskine, celebrated broadcaster, entrepreneur, and mentor, has spent over two decades inspiring African women and youth through her work in media and business.
Her platforms highlight African innovation and entrepreneurship, while her mentorship programmes empower the next generation of leaders.
Ms. Erskine is widely admired for her dynamic style and commitment to telling authentic African stories.
Ibrahim Mahama, the internationally acclaimed Ghanaian visual artist, is renowned for his monumental installations using jute sacks and recycled materials to comment on history, trade, and social transformation.
His work has been exhibited globally, and his Red Clay Studio in Tamale has become a hub for art, education, and community development.
Through his art, Mahama has given Ghana and Africa a powerful voice in global cultural conversations.
The Foreign Minister explained that the diplomatic passport would enable the five envoys to carry out their mobilisation work more effectively across borders.
“This is about more than privilege; it is about empowering them to continue their good work in the name of the African people,” Mr. Ablakwa noted.
