Ghana Anchors Foreign Policy in Humanitarian Tradition

Ghana’s foreign policy is rooted in humanitarianism and mutual support, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has stated. He reiterated this commitment while addressing Parliament on Wednesday, outlining recent deployments of aid and personnel to nations in need.

Responding to concerns raised by the Minority regarding the deployment of Ghanaian troops to Benin and Jamaica, Mr Ablakwa detailed Ghana’s longstanding tradition of offering assistance, tracing it back to the First Republic under President Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. He emphasized that successive governments have maintained this principle of solidarity, extending help irrespective of geographical location or political affiliation.

Since January, President John Mahama has authorized the dispatch of relief supplies – including both food and medical aid – to several countries grappling with crises. These include Sudan, Palestine, Haiti, Cuba, and most recently, Jamaica, which was severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

“The natural disaster in Jamaica claimed 40 lives and caused destruction estimated at 8.8 billion,” the Minister revealed, highlighting the scale of the devastation.

Further demonstrating Ghana’s commitment, President Mahama on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, authorized the deployment of 54 army engineers and medical officers to Kingston, Jamaica. Their mission is to contribute to the ongoing reconstruction efforts following the hurricane.

“Ghana’s foreign policy direction would not be defined by how much we take from others, but how the country can support others in distress,” Mr Ablakwa stated firmly.

However, the Minister’s briefing wasn’t without scrutiny. Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo and Ranking Member on Foreign Affairs, argued that the appearance before Parliament was triggered by the Minority’s concerns about the deployment of soldiers to both Benin and Jamaica. “The President’s executive powers must be exercised within the framework of parliamentary oversight, not arbitrarily,” he emphasized.

The ensuing debate saw members from both sides of the House express markedly different viewpoints, largely aligning with their respective political affiliations. The differing views underscored the importance of parliamentary oversight and transparency in the execution of Ghana’s foreign policy objectives.

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