Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has presented diplomatic passports to five distinguished Ghanaians as part of a new initiative to strengthen the country’s cultural and people-to-people diplomacy.
The beneficiaries are travel vlogger Wode Maya (Berthold Kobby Winkler Ackon), Grammy-nominated reggae star Rocky Dawuni, broadcaster and media entrepreneur Anita Erskine, celebrated visual artist Ibrahim Mahama, and British-Ghanaian entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng MBE.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, September 17, during the launch of the Diaspora Summit 2025, jointly organised by the Office of the President – Diaspora Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Why they were chosen
According to the Ministry, the recipients were selected for their international influence and longstanding efforts in promoting Ghana and African culture. The passports will enable them to more effectively “connect Ghana to the world” by supporting cultural diplomacy, trade promotion, and global engagement.
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Wode Maya – A leading YouTuber showcasing African destinations, entrepreneurship, and culture, with a vast global following.
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Rocky Dawuni – A world-renowned reggae musician and activist, recognised for his advocacy on peace, environmental sustainability, and cultural exchange.
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Anita Erskine – A seasoned broadcaster and media personality, noted for championing youth empowerment, women’s leadership, and pan-African dialogue.
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Ibrahim Mahama – An acclaimed contemporary artist whose installations exploring history, labour, and material culture have been exhibited worldwide.
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Dentaa Amoateng MBE – Founder of the GUBA Awards and GUBA Enterprise, known for mobilising the diaspora and promoting African entrepreneurship.
Broader purpose
Officials explained that this initiative forms part of Ghana’s evolving diplomatic strategy, which seeks to harness soft power by empowering cultural icons to act as ambassadors for the nation. By tapping into their diverse networks — spanning digital media, music, art, broadcasting, and diaspora communities — Ghana aims to amplify its global visibility, strengthen trade and tourism ties, and enhance cultural exchange.
A people-centred approach
The decision has been widely interpreted as a deliberate move to recognise non-traditional diplomacy. Each of the five figures embodies a unique strand of influence: Wode Maya’s digital reach, Dawuni’s global music platform, Erskine’s media presence, Mahama’s international art exhibitions, and Dentaa’s diaspora engagement. Together, they represent a broad spectrum of Ghanaian excellence projected onto the world stage.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem