The Government of Ghana has announced that it will hold a state funeral for former Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador James Victor Gbeho on Friday, July 31, 2026, in recognition of his distinguished service to the nation and the international community.
The funeral will take place at the forecourt of the State House in Accra. The government is organizing the ceremony in collaboration with the Gbeho family.
The announcement came in a statement issued by the Presidency and signed by Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
According to the statement, the state funeral will honour Ambassador Gbeho’s decades of dedicated service in diplomacy, governance and regional cooperation.
Ambassador Gbeho died on June 13, 2026, at the age of 91.
Throughout his career, he held several senior positions in Ghana’s public service and represented the country on major international platforms.
He served as Minister for Foreign Affairs, where he played a key role in shaping Ghana’s foreign policy and strengthening diplomatic relations with countries around the world.
He also served as Ghana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, representing the country’s interests at the global level.
Beyond his work for Ghana, Ambassador Gbeho made significant contributions to international diplomacy.
He served as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, where he supported peace and reconciliation efforts during a challenging period in the country’s history.
He later became President of the ECOWAS Commission, leading initiatives that promoted regional integration, economic cooperation and peace across West Africa.
Government officials described Ambassador Gbeho as one of Ghana’s most respected diplomats and statesmen.
They said his commitment to public service and international cooperation earned him admiration both at home and abroad.
The state funeral is expected to attract senior government officials, diplomats, traditional leaders, political figures and representatives from regional and international organizations.
Many are expected to gather to celebrate Ambassador Gbeho’s life and acknowledge his lasting contributions to Ghana and the wider African continent.
Political analysts say his career reflected Ghana’s long-standing commitment to diplomacy, multilateral engagement and regional collaboration.
They note that his work helped strengthen Ghana’s reputation as an active participant in international affairs.
The government said the state funeral will provide an opportunity for the nation to pay its final respects to a public servant whose career spanned several decades.
As preparations continue, tributes from colleagues, diplomats and public figures continue to highlight Ambassador Gbeho’s legacy of professionalism, integrity and dedicated service.
His contributions to Ghana’s foreign policy and regional diplomacy remain an important part of the country’s diplomatic history.
