Accra, Ghana – [February 27, 2025] – The United States Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Virginia E. Palmer, has paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), at the ministry’s headquarters in Accra.

Their discussions focused on key bilateral issues, including development aid, public health, and immigration.

Hon. Ablakwa reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with the United States, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges.

He also sought clarity on critical concerns, particularly the U.S. government’s suspension of USAID aid to Ghana, the potential withdrawal of the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), and the fate of Ghanaian nationals facing deportation from the United States.

Ambassador Palmer explained that the suspension of USAID funding was a temporary 90-day measure to allow for a review of the agency’s operations.

She expressed optimism that aid would resume once the review was completed, although potentially at reduced levels.

Addressing immigration concerns, the ambassador revealed that approximately 156 undocumented Ghanaians could be affected by U.S. deportation policies.

However, she assured the minister that none of those individuals were classified as hardened criminals.

Hon. Ablakwa also raised concerns over the potential withdrawal of the U.S. from the WHO, stressing that such a move could significantly impact Ghana’s public health programs, particularly efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations and working together on critical issues affecting both nations.

Story By: Robicon Mornahson