Foreign Ministry spends $15m annually on rent – Ablakwa

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that the ministry spends approximately $15 million each year on rent for Foreign Service Officers stationed abroad.

He described the figure as a major strain on the ministry’s budget, stressing the need for long-term solutions.

To address the issue, the minister announced plans to begin purchasing at least two properties annually as part of efforts to invest in the long-term welfare of staff.

However, the Minister expressed concern over the poor maintenance culture observed in some missions. He noted that several government-owned properties abroad have deteriorated significantly, raising concerns about safety and the wellbeing of officers.

In addition, he stated that officers deployed to challenging or high-risk countries would now be reposted every two years to reduce hardship and promote staff welfare.

During an engagement with staff at the Ghana High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria, the Minister reiterated his commitment to improving conditions for officers.

The visit to Nigeria forms part of the Minister’s official tour of Benin, Nigeria, and Togo, aimed at strengthening ties with Ghanaian missions and citizens abroad.

He believes this hands-on approach will enable him to better understand and address the concerns of both staff and the diaspora community.