Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister James Gyakye Quayson has called for Ghana’s engagement with the African diaspora to focus on building lasting relationships rather than concentrating solely on attracting investment and increasing visitor numbers.
He made the call when he addressed the inaugural Open D.O.O.R. National Dialogue as special guest speaker.
Held under the theme, “Come Home. Stay Home. Build Home,” the dialogue forms part of the Decade of Our Repatriation (D.O.O.R.), an initiative by Professor Ɔbenfo Bakari Kambon in partnership with the College of Humanities at the University of Ghana.
The initiative seeks to translate discussions on repatriation, Pan-Africanism and diaspora engagement into practical actions focused on cultural reconnection, socio-economic integration, investment and knowledge exchange.
Mr Quayson said meaningful diaspora engagement must be built on trust, mutual respect, shared identity and common purpose.
“Let us remember that, diaspora engagement is not merely about attracting investment or increasing visitor numbers. At its core, is the need to build enduring relationships anchored in trust, mutual respect, shared identity, and common purpose,” he said.
He said Ghana’s ambition should extend beyond promoting the country as a destination for people of African descent to creating an environment where they can reconnect with their heritage and contribute to national development.
“For Ghana, it goes beyond advocacy into strengthening our position as the gate of return to Africa, a hub for innovation and opportunity, and a sanctuary for people of African descent worldwide,” he said.
He added that the initiative should renew efforts to build lasting relationships between Ghana and the African diaspora.
