Ghana’s Foreign Ministry Honors Dedicated Embassy Driver
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has honored Oriel Chinthaka Ariyaratna Paiyagala Linyanage, a locally recruited driver at the Ghanaian Embassy in France, with an all-expenses-paid trip to Ghana. Linyanage, originally from Sri Lanka, has served the embassy for 41 years, fulfilling various roles, but never had the chance to visit Ghana.
The surprise trip was announced by Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on December 25, 2025, during a carols service, recognizing Linyanage’s dedication and service. The award package includes visits to tourist attractions, gifts, and a cash prize. Ablakwa noted that Linyanage’s late father, also a driver at the embassy, never got to visit Ghana either.
This recognition is part of the ministry’s new annual long-service and best-performing staff award scheme for locally recruited employees at Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad. The initiative aims to motivate staff, promote inclusivity, and enhance productivity. Other award recipients include Evans Aryeequaye Attoh (36 years), Caroline Nkrumah-Appiah (35 years), and Philip Twum Nkansah (35 years).
Ablakwa emphasized that this scheme complements an existing recognition program for home-based Foreign Service staff. He congratulated the awardees, stating, “Ghana values your contributions.
The ministry’s gesture has highlighted the importance of recognizing dedicated service, especially among locally recruited staff who play key roles in sustaining Ghana’s diplomatic presence abroad.
