In a bold and timely move, Ghanaian public figure and former Member of Parliament, Ras Mubarak, has penned an open letter to the President of the Republic of Ghana, calling for a major restructuring of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in light of Ghana’s current economic challenges.
The letter, dated 7th June 2025, is the first in what Ras Mubarak calls “a series of recommendations” to help the government generate revenue and redirect spending to key sectors like health, education, infrastructure, and housing.
🔍 Focus: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ras Mubarak urges the President to downsize or completely scrap 22 Ghanaian embassies and diplomatic missions, arguing that these offices provide little strategic benefit to Ghana and are an unnecessary burden on the public purse. The countries listed include:
Austria, Israel, Serbia, Namibia, Libya, UAE, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Rwanda, Czech Republic, among others.
His proposal is grounded on three key justifications:
• Low trade volumes between Ghana and these countries
• Minimal diplomatic engagement that directly benefits the nation
• High operational costs, including rent and salaries, which could be better invested in pressing local needs
💬 “We Cannot Afford to Spend Beyond Our Means”
Mubarak doesn’t mince words as he reminds the President that even wealthier nations are tightening their belts.
“We can’t keep paying for high rent costs while kids in schools up and down the country sit on the floor.”
“Keeping these embassies cannot be justified when clinics in rural Ghana are an eyesore.”
👷♂️ Redeployment, Not Job Losses
Addressing concerns over possible job losses, Mubarak suggests that affected diplomatic staff can be redeployed to more strategic missions. He cites the Australian diplomatic model as a case of efficiency—where one High Commissioner oversees several countries—proposing that Ghana should adopt a similar approach.
He also recommends appointing Consul Generals in countries with minor diplomatic activity, reducing overheads while maintaining presence.
💡 Where Could the Money Go?
According to Mubarak, the hundreds of millions of dollars saved annually could be redirected into:
• 🏥 Healthcare – Strengthening medical infrastructure and access
• 📚 Education – Investing in schools and training programs
• 🏗️ Infrastructure – Building roads, bridges, and public systems
• 🏠 Housing – Developing affordable homes for low- and middle-income Ghanaians
📌 Final Thoughts
The letter ends with a passionate plea for “prudent management and strategic decision-making” to navigate Ghana’s financial struggles and steer the country toward sustainable development.
As the nation watches for the government’s response, this open letter from Ras Mubarak is sure to spark a national conversation on how Ghana manages its diplomatic footprint in relation to its domestic needs.
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