Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has gained rare access to two Ghanaian nationals being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine, describing the development as a significant diplomatic breakthrough in efforts to secure their release.
The minister revealed on Thursday that he was granted entry into a heavily fortified security facility where the two men are being detained — an approval he said was unprecedented for an African foreign minister. He expressed gratitude to Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, for authorising the visit.
Mr Ablakwa confirmed that the detainees are alive and in good condition, noting that their rights under international law have been respected by Ukrainian authorities. He said the access reflects the strong bilateral ties between Ghana and Ukraine and bolsters confidence in ongoing negotiations aimed at securing the men’s freedom.
The identities of the prisoners have been withheld for security reasons. However, the minister disclosed that both individuals have expressed a desire to use their experience to advocate against human trafficking networks and to educate vulnerable Africans about the risks of recruitment into foreign conflicts.
Mr Ablakwa’s trip to Kyiv formed part of broader high-level diplomatic engagements, including talks with President Zelenskyy. Discussions reportedly focused on humanitarian considerations and strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The breakthrough marks a key step in Ghana’s diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe return of its citizens and underscores the government’s commitment to protecting nationals caught up in foreign conflicts.