The Government of Ghana has announced that a state funeral will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, in honour of the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, recognizing his outstanding contributions to Ghana’s diplomacy and international relations. The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 29, by the Presidency Communications Office and signed by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
According to the statement, the state burial will be organised in collaboration with the Gbeho family and related families at the Forecourt of the State House. The ceremony is intended to pay tribute to what the government described as Ambassador Gbeho’s “stellar national and international service.” The government noted that Ambassador Gbeho was one of Ghana’s most accomplished statesmen whose distinguished diplomatic career spanned several decades. Rising through the ranks of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he served in key leadership positions, including Chief Director, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and later Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Beyond his service to Ghana, Ambassador Gbeho also made significant contributions on the international stage. He served as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Somalia before assuming the role of President of the ECOWAS Commission, where he played a central role in advancing regional cooperation and integration within West Africa.
The Presidency said the decision to accord him a state funeral reflects the nation’s appreciation for his dedicated service and enduring legacy in diplomacy, governance and regional affairs. The government also extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging the loss of a respected public servant whose career left a lasting impact on Ghana and the wider international community.
As the former stateman is laid to rest, the state burial is expected to bring together government officials, diplomats, political leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, family members, loved ones and other dignitaries to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Ghana’s most distinguished foreign policy figures.
By: Joyce Owusu
