Ghana has extended its cultural diplomacy drive by granting diplomatic passports to five prominent personalities whose work has significantly elevated the country’s image on the global stage.
The recipients are travel vlogger Wode Maya, Grammy-nominated reggae artist Rocky Dawuni, broadcaster Anita Erskine, contemporary visual artist Ibrahim Mahama, and entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng MBE.
The passports were presented by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during the launch of the Diaspora Summit 2025 in Accra on Wednesday.
According to the Minister, the decision reflects government’s strategy to harness the influence of cultural figures as part of Ghana’s expanding diplomatic toolkit.
“These distinguished Ghanaians have become global ambassadors for our culture, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their recognition with diplomatic passports is to further empower them to connect Ghana to the world,” he said.
Profiles of the new cultural envoys
Wode Maya (Berthold Kobby Winkler Ackon), a popular travel vlogger and YouTuber, is known for showcasing African destinations, entrepreneurship stories, and cultural narratives, amassing millions of followers online.
Rocky Dawuni, a celebrated reggae musician and activist with multiple Grammy nominations, uses his music to advocate for peace, environmental sustainability, and African identity.
Anita Erskine, an acclaimed broadcaster and media entrepreneur, is recognised for her leadership in pan-African media, youth empowerment, and women’s advocacy.
Ibrahim Mahama, one of Africa’s leading contemporary artists, has exhibited globally, using installations to interrogate labour, history, and material culture.
Dentaa Amoateng MBE, founder of the GUBA Awards and GUBA Enterprise, has been instrumental in diaspora mobilisation and cultural entrepreneurship.
The initiative is designed to broaden Ghana’s diplomatic reach by empowering high-profile cultural figures to advance trade, tourism, and international partnerships.
With their combined influence across digital media, arts, music, broadcasting, and diaspora networks, the five envoys are expected to strengthen people-to-people connections while promoting Ghana’s soft power globally.
Each of the new passport holders brings a distinct area of impact. Wode Maya’s storytelling continues to inspire pan-African pride and attract global audiences; Dawuni blends music with advocacy on global stages; Erskine promotes inclusive conversations across Africa; Mahama pushes boundaries in visual art, while Amoateng drives diaspora engagement and business linkages.
“This initiative signals a shift in Ghana’s diplomacy, where cultural icons are recognised as crucial players in shaping perceptions, building partnerships, and projecting national identity,” the Ministry noted.
