Wode Maya, Rocky Dawuni Awarded Diplomatic Passports
The Ghanaian government has awarded diplomatic passports for Ghanaians with notable international influence. On Wednesday, September 17, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, presented the passports to five distinguished citizens. This ceremony, which took place at the 2025 Diaspora Summit in Accra, was a collaboration between the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The recipients of this high honor are travel vlogger Wode Maya, Grammy-nominated reggae artist Rocky Dawuni, and broadcaster Anita Erskine. In addition, contemporary visual artist Ibrahim Mahama and British-Ghanaian entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng MBE also received the honor. Mr. Ablakwa explained the decision. He stated that the honor came under the authority of NLCD 155. This law gives the Foreign Minister the power to grant such documents. Ablakwa noted the individuals have consistently promoted Ghana on the world stage. Thus, they will now have the additional support of diplomatic passports. He praised the recipients on Facebook, urging them to “keep bringing Ghana renown.”
Each honoree is a leader in their field. For instance, Wode Maya is a popular vlogger. His videos show African destinations and entrepreneurship. Similarly, Rocky Dawuni is a Grammy-nominated reggae artist. His music and activism make him a cultural ambassador for peace and the environment. Moreover, Anita Erskine is a well-known broadcaster. She is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment. Also, Ibrahim Mahama is a visual artist. He has gained international fame for his large-scale art. Finally, Dentaa Amoateng MBE is a British-Ghanaian entrepreneur. She founded the GUBA Awards. Her initiative has strengthened ties between Ghana and its diaspora.
This decision reflects Ghana’s recognition of its citizens’ soft power. Indeed, by granting these diplomatic passports for Ghanaians who excel in culture and arts, the government is formally supporting their role as international ambassadors. The move acknowledges that promoting a nation’s image goes beyond traditional diplomacy. Consequently, these individuals have proven they can build bridges and foster goodwill on a global scale. Therefore, this action is a strategic investment in Ghana’s global brand. Ultimately, this program helps project Ghana’s influence worldwide.
Source: GraphicOnline
You can watch a video of the presentation ceremony for the diplomatic passports. Ablakwa Honors Rocky Dawuni, Ibrahim Mahama, Anita Erskine and 2 others with Diplomatic Passports
