Ghana is set to reopen its embassy in the United States on Thursday, 29th May 2025, following a temporary closure due to a visa fraud scandal.
A high-ranking diplomat and a team of staff members have been dispatched from Accra to oversee the reopening and restore operations. The embassy’s website is also being reconfigured to enhance security and transparency, ensuring the mission regains its integrity. Measures have been put in place to address all backlogs, with a renewed commitment to efficient service delivery.
Background
The embassy was shut down after an investigation uncovered widespread visa fraud, primarily orchestrated by the head of the IT department. The scandal led to the dissolution of the entire IT unit and the suspension of several staff members implicated in the scheme. The Ghanaian government has since taken decisive steps to prevent future misconduct, including stricter oversight and enhanced vetting procedures for personnel. Authorities have emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within diplomatic missions.
As part of the reopening process, the new team has been tasked with implementing robust systems to prevent fraud and streamline consular services. The revamped embassy website will feature improved security protocols to safeguard sensitive data and ensure the authenticity of visa applications. The government has assured Ghanaians and foreign nationals that all pending cases will be resolved promptly, with additional staff deployed to clear the backlog.
The reopening marks a fresh start for Ghana’s diplomatic presence in the U.S., reinforcing the nation’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining trust in its international engagements. The incident has served as a wake-up call for stronger institutional safeguards across Ghana’s foreign missions. With these reforms, the embassy is poised to restore its reputation and provide reliable services to the public. Officials have urged applicants to remain patient as the mission resumes full operations.
Press Release – Reopening of the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC
