Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has unveiled an ambitious architectural initiative aimed at redefining the image of Ghana’s diplomatic missions across the globe.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra, the Minister announced the launch of an open architectural design competition for what will become the standardised model for all future embassies and high commissions, collectively to be known as “Ghana House.”

According to Mr Ablakwa, the Mahama administration is committed to ensuring that these new diplomatic buildings reflect Ghana’s rich cultural identity and heritage, while embracing modern standards of sustainability and creativity.

“The Mahama administration has decided that new Ghana embassies and high commissions to be constructed across the world must have a standard design which should depict our unique heritage and culture,” the Minister said.

“We are therefore today announcing an open competition which should lead us to select the most iconic, green and creative architectural design for Ghana House, as they will be known across the world.”

He noted that the competition officially opens today, 15th September 2025, and will run until Friday, 14th November 2025. It is open to all Ghanaian architects, regardless of experience or professional standing.

“Whether young or old, fresh graduates or legends, you are all free to participate in this competition,” Mr Ablakwa added.

In a pointed reference to previous administrations, the Minister criticised the single-sourcing of major national projects to a single architect.

“This is obviously a refreshing departure from the recent past which saw all major national projects being single-sourced for one architect from the National Cathedral, Marine Drive, Agenda 111, Bank of Ghana Head Office, Buboi Centre, New Parliamentary Chamber, Trade Fair redesign, GNPC Head Office, Airport City… all going to one architect,” he noted.

“That era has ended. There is a new reset, and this is yet another confirmation that the reset is truly happening.”