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The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that President John Dramani Mahama is spearheading diplomatic efforts to reintegrate Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The three Sahel nations announced their departure from ECOWAS in January 2024, citing dissatisfaction with the regional bloc’s approach to governance and security issues. Their exit raised concerns about regional stability, economic cooperation, and the fight against terrorism in West Africa.

Ablakwa stated that President Mahama has already appointed a special envoy to engage with the leaders of the three countries that broke away from ECOWAS and is planning diplomatic visits in the coming weeks.

"President Mahama is spearheading the drive to bring Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso back into the ECOWAS fold. He is actively engaged in discussions and has assigned a special envoy to help expedite the process. I have no doubt that, given his diplomatic background, he will succeed," Ablakwa told TV3.


Ablakwa, Ghana's newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that the Mahama administration's foreign policy will concentrate economic diplomacy and strategic relationships.

"We are striving to demystify foreign relations. Diplomacy should not be abstract; it should produce practical advantages for regular Ghanaians. We shall prioritize economic diplomacy and guarantee that our foreign ties benefit people's livelihoods."


Ablakwa also mentioned Ghana's prospective participation with the BRICS economic group, which consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

He stated that a Mahama-led administration would consider the merits of joining BRICS while maintaining strong ties with conventional partners such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

"The world is changing towards multipolar alignments, and Ghana must not be left behind. We must consider all possibilities, including strengthening connections with the BRICS, to guarantee that our economic interests are well-positioned on the world arena."