Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Visits Accra Visa Centres, Urges Faster Processing

Accra, Ghana — On Monday 5 October 2026, Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa conducted a field visit to more than twenty embassies and visa application centres across the capital.

Accompanied by senior officials of the Foreign Ministry, the minister inspected the facilities and spoke directly with Ghanaian visa applicants waiting for appointments.

Minister’s remarks

Addressing media at the conclusion of the tour, Ablakwa said his first month in office has been marked by a focus on protecting the dignity and welfare of Ghanaian citizens seeking visas. He urged diplomatic missions to reduce long waiting periods for appointments and to provide adequate shelter for applicants against unpredictable weather.

The minister acknowledged “considerable progress” at some missions but warned that “others must do more to ensure the welfare of Ghanaians is truly safeguarded.” He reiterated that while the prerogative to grant visas rests with each mission, the government’s role is to ensure that the process respects applicants’ dignity.

Ablakwa said he will meet with the heads of the diplomatic missions in the coming days to discuss his observations and to seek concrete steps for improving service standards.

The visit is presented as the first step in a broader effort to streamline visa procedures and enhance the experience of Ghanaian applicants.