The Government of Ghana has announced that it will hold a state funeral in honour of the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, recognising his decades of distinguished service to the country and the international community.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency Communications Office on Wednesday, July 29, the funeral will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the forecourt of the State House in Accra. The ceremony is being organised in collaboration with the Gbeho family and related families.
The government said the state burial is intended to honour Ambassador Gbeho’s exceptional contributions to Ghana’s diplomatic service and his significant roles on the international stage.
“The Government of Ghana, in collaboration with the Gbeho and related families, shall hold a State Funeral in honor of the stellar national and international service rendered by the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho at the forecourt of the State House on Friday, 31st July, 2026,” the statement said.
Ambassador James Victor Gbeho was widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most accomplished diplomats, with a career spanning several decades in public service. Throughout his distinguished career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he steadily rose through the ranks, serving in several key leadership positions.
His career saw him serve as Chief Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before being appointed Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs. He later became Minister for Foreign Affairs, where he played a central role in shaping Ghana’s foreign policy and strengthening the country’s diplomatic relations with partners across the world.
Beyond his service to Ghana, Ambassador Gbeho earned international recognition through his work with the United Nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Presidency noted that he served as the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General in Somalia, a role in which he was involved in efforts to support peace, stability and political dialogue in the conflict-affected East African nation.
He later went on to serve as President of the ECOWAS Commission, where he provided leadership for the regional bloc during a period marked by efforts to promote regional integration, peace, security and economic cooperation among West African states.
His extensive diplomatic experience and commitment to public service earned him respect both within Ghana and internationally, making him one of the country’s most distinguished statesmen.
The decision to accord him a state funeral reflects the government’s recognition of his immense contributions to national development and his role in advancing Ghana’s reputation in global diplomacy.
The Presidency also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging the nation’s loss of a respected public servant whose legacy continues to inspire generations of diplomats and public officials.
The state funeral is expected to attract senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, former colleagues, family members and other dignitaries who will gather to pay their final respects to the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho and celebrate a lifetime dedicated to public service, diplomacy and regional cooperation.
CREDIT: MAVIS FANTEVI