President John Mahama has commissioned a newly constructed chancery for Ghana’s Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The announcement was made in a Facebook post by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who characterised the edifice as far more than a mere administrative building.

According to the Minister, the new chancery stands as “an affirmation of Ghana’s firm belief in multilateralism” and a clear demonstration of the country’s enduring commitment to the vision of the African Union (AU).

Mr Ablakwa noted that the commissioning signals President Mahama’s readiness to assume the Chairmanship of the African Union next year, a development that could further elevate Ghana’s diplomatic influence across the continent.

The chancery project has a ten-year history, dating back to 2016 when funding was secured under the SG-SSB facility. Although initial arrangements were made that year, construction experienced delays due to economic constraints. The project subsequently stalled amid fiscal challenges.

According to the Foreign Minister, the current administration revived the initiative, settling outstanding Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) last year and enabling work to resume.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Gedion Timothewos, whose presence was acknowledged with “profound appreciation” by Ghanaian officials.

Ghana and Ethiopia enjoy longstanding cordial relations, rooted in shared Pan-African ideals and cooperation within multilateral institutions.

The new chancery is expected to enhance diplomatic coordination, promote trade and investment, and deepen cultural and political ties between the two nations.

Mr Ablakwa commended officials from Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, embassy staff in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian contractor and the Ghanaian consultant for their roles in bringing the project to fruition.