Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced an open architectural competition that will determine the future design of the nation’s embassies and high commissions worldwide.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, September 15, 2025 in Accra, Hon. Ablakwa said the initiative is part of the Mahama administration’s plan to create a unified architectural identity for all diplomatic buildings, to be collectively branded as “Ghana House.”
According to the Minister, the new standard design will ensure that Ghana’s diplomatic missions reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainability, creativity, and modern standards.
“The Mahama administration has decided that new Ghana embassies and high commissions to be constructed across the world must have a standard design which should depict our unique heritage and culture,” he said.
Open Call to Ghanaian Architects
The Ghana House competition officially opened on September 15, 2025, and will run until November 14, 2025.
Participation is open to all Ghanaian architects, regardless of age, experience, or professional background. “Whether young or old, fresh graduates or legends, you are all free to participate in this competition,” Hon. Ablakwa emphasised.
A Shift Away From Single-Sourcing
In his remarks, the Minister also drew a contrast with past administrations, criticising the practice of awarding all major projects to a single architect.
He cited examples such as the National Cathedral, Marine Drive, Agenda 111, Bank of Ghana Head Office, New Parliamentary Chamber, Trade Fair redesign, and Airport City, all of which were previously single-sourced.
“This is obviously a refreshing departure from the recent past… That era has ended. There is a new reset, and this is yet another confirmation that the reset is truly happening,” Hon. Ablakwa declared.
Final Thoughts
The Ghana House competition signals a bold reset in Ghana’s approach to public architecture. By opening the process to all architects, the government hopes to inspire designs that are iconic, culturally rooted, and environmentally sustainable.
Do you think Ghana should adopt a single design identity for all its embassies? Share your views in the comments below.
