Ghana has officially proposed the candidature of Matthew Kwesi Crenstil, a distinguished Ghanaian humanitarian, for the position of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The announcement was made by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, during the 76th Annual Plenary Session of the UNHCR Executive Committee held in Geneva.

“As we bid farewell to Mr. Filippo Grandi, Ghana is greatly honoured to present the candidature of Mr. Matthew Kwesi Crenstil, a distinguished Ghanaian, for the position of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees,” the Minister said.

Mr. Crenstil currently serves as a Senior Executive at the UNHCR and represents the organisation in Uganda, where he oversees Africa’s largest refugee operation.

With over 31 years of experience in humanitarian and development work within the UNHCR, Mr. Crenstil is celebrated for his leadership in protection, strategic innovation, and inclusive governance across Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

His work, according to the Minister, reflects Ghana’s proud legacy of peacebuilding, hospitality, and multilateral cooperation.

Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak noted that Mr. Crenstil’s nomination embodies the spirit of global solidarity that defines the UNHCR’s mission.

“His appointment will mark a historic milestone, as no African has ever served as the High Commissioner since the establishment of the Office of the UNHCR 75 years ago,” the Minister stated.

He added that Ghana presents Mr. Crenstil’s candidature “with great confidence and optimism”, describing him as an extraordinary choice to lead the UNHCR into a future of renewed hope, resilience, and shared humanity.