The legacy of late diplomat and statesman Ambassador James Victor Gbeho is set to be preserved at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with plans underway to name a facility in the ministry’s new block after him.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the decision during a tribute at the state funeral of the former Foreign Affairs Minister and ex-President of the ECOWAS Commission on Friday, July 31.
He said the move was part of efforts by the ministry to permanently recognise Ambassador Gbeho’s immense contribution to Ghana’s diplomatic service and public administration.
Mr Ablakwa explained that the decision was reached in consultation with the management of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, describing Ambassador Gbeho as one of the country’s most influential figures in international relations.
“In recognition of Victor Gbeho’s remarkable service and contribution to the nation, I, along with the management of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have decided to name one of our facilities in our new ministerial block after him to immortalise his memory,” he said.
The Foreign Affairs Minister highlighted Ambassador Gbeho’s decades of service, noting that his impact went beyond Ghana’s borders and contributed significantly to diplomacy, regional cooperation and peacebuilding efforts.
He praised the late diplomat’s career as an example of dedication, professionalism and commitment to national duty, stressing that his achievements reflected the values expected of public servants.
Mr Ablakwa described Ambassador Gbeho’s passing as a major loss to Ghana and Africa, saying the country had lost a distinguished statesman, while the continent had lost a respected advocate for peace and cooperation.
He added that although the veteran diplomat was no longer alive, his influence would continue through the institutions he helped strengthen, the diplomats he trained and the diplomatic principles he promoted.
Ambassador James Victor Gbeho passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 91, after a remarkable career that covered more than 60 years of public service.
Born on January 12, 1935, in Keta in the Volta Region, Ambassador Gbeho served as Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister between 1997 and 2001 during the administration of former President Jerry John Rawlings.
He later became Member of Parliament for the Anlo Constituency, served as foreign policy adviser to former President John Evans Atta Mills and represented Ghana in several diplomatic postings, including China, India, Nigeria, Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland.
His career played a significant role in advancing Ghana’s diplomatic interests and strengthening the country’s relationships on the global stage.
