Ghana’s Ambassador to Egypt, Prof. Justice Solomon Korantwi-Barimah, has called on Ghanaians living in Egypt to unite and actively contribute to Ghana’s national development, stressing that the diaspora remains a critical force in the country’s progress and transformation.
Addressing a well-attended diaspora engagement forum with the Ghanaian community in Cairo over the weekend, the Ambassador expressed delight in connecting with the Ghanaian community and sharing updates on the country’s progress.
“Ghana is moving forward with significant economic reforms and development projects,” he said, urging them to work together to build a stronger Ghana.
The Ambassador emphasised that the Cairo mission remains committed to supporting citizens abroad, describing Ghanaians in Egypt as key stakeholders within a global network; hence, the need to harness their skills, resources, and influence to drive Ghana’s growth
He outlined key consular services available at the mission, including passport issuance and renewal, emergency assistance, document certification, and cultural and networking initiatives.
He also addressed misconceptions about residence permits, clarifying that the Embassy does not issue such permits, as they fall under the jurisdiction of Egyptian immigration authorities, stressing that “it is never done anywhere by diplomatic missions”.
He urged Ghanaians to register with the Mission and comply fully with local immigration laws to avoid arrests.
The Ambassador, however, announced new measures to improve service delivery and strengthen diaspora engagement.
Chief among the initiatives is the planned issuance of Ghana Cards to eligible citizens in Egypt, in collaboration with the National Identification Authority, following similar exercises in countries such as the United Kingdom.
He also revealed plans for a comprehensive data registration exercise to maintain updated records of Ghanaians in Egypt, which will support efficient service delivery.
Another initiative, the “24-Hour Access Initiative”, will enable citizens to contact the Mission at any time without a prior appointment, ensuring a prompt response to urgent concerns.
Reaffirming the Mission’s commitment to collaboration, the Ambassador urged Ghanaians to support President Mahama’s Reset Agenda, live in unity, obey local laws, and uphold Ghanaian values.
“We are here for the good and well-being of all Ghanaians, devoid of religious, tribal or political affiliations. Let us leverage our skills and resources to drive Ghana’s development,” he said.
The Ambassador commended the organisers, community leaders, professionals, and students for their roles in making the event a success and conveyed greetings from President John Mahama, the Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), and the people of Ghana.
In a separate engagement, the Ambassador praised Ghanaian professionals working in institutions such as the World Bank, Afreximbank, CAF, and the Africa Space Agency for upholding Ghana’s image abroad.
“Today, we acknowledge and express our pride in your contributions to Ghana’s development and encourage you to continue to make a positive impact. Ghana is proud of you, and the entire staff at the Cairo Mission equally holds you in high esteem,” he stated.
He also highlighted the longstanding ties between Ghana and Egypt, dating back to Kwame Nkrumah and Gamal Abdel Nasser, and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, security, and investment.
“My brothers and sisters, Ghana needs partnerships and your expertise to build the Ghana we want. If we do not organise, collaborate, and show up, others will fill the space, and the opportunity to contribute our quota to nation building will pass us by,” he stressed.
“This is a call to go home humbly with the needed expertise and build Ghana together, and posterity will forever be proud of us,” he admonished.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com