Israel Celebrates 78 Years in Ghana with Cultural Diplomacy

The Israeli Embassy in Accra recently celebrated Israel’s 78th anniversary with a vibrant cultural event. The celebration featured performances of Jewish dance, violin, and song. Guests described the evening as “refreshing and unforgettable.” The event underscored the deepening diplomatic and economic ties between Israel and Ghana.

Israeli artist Tania Vinokur headlined the affair. She performed a unique blend of world music and theatrical movement. The programme also included performances by Israeli school children and a ceremonial dance. Ambassador Roey Gilad and his wife invited diplomats, government officials, clergy, and friends to join the festivities. The evening opened with the national anthems of both Ghana and Israel.

Ambassador Gilad hailed the strong Israel-Ghana relationship. He specifically highlighted agriculture as a key area of cooperation. Through MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, Ghanaian farmers have received training. This has included workshops both in Israel and locally in Ghana. Ambassador Gilad called this the “Israeli agricultural miracle.” He noted that Ghana was the first African nation to host an Israeli Embassy. This happened in 1956, before Ghana’s independence. It marked Israel’s first diplomatic mission in Sub-Saharan Africa. Bilateral relations have since broadened significantly.

These relations now span several crucial sectors. They include cybersecurity, fintech, defence, and energy. Furthermore, Israeli private firms are actively supporting Ghana’s development. Their contributions focus on infrastructure, water management, and construction projects. Ambassador Gilad also addressed regional security concerns. He mentioned the complex threats Israel faces from Iran and its proxies. He stated that Iran has pursued nuclear capability since 1979. This pursuit is with the aim of destroying Israel. He stressed that the people of Israel seek peace for their security.

The Ambassador also spoke about ongoing peace talks with Lebanon. He emphasized shared interests and the need to disarm militant groups. Israel also seeks normal relations with the Palestinians. He described peace with them as “important, essential, and possible.” However, he cited Hamas’ refusal to disarm as a major obstacle. Ambassador Gilad praised Ghana’s contribution to the UNIFIL Peacekeeping Force in South Lebanon. Ghana has sent thousands of troops to this force.

Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, represented the Government of Ghana. He affirmed Ghana’s “long-standing and cordial relations” with Israel. These ties are built on mutual respect and practical cooperation. Mr. Adjei referenced Israel’s role in capacity building and technical assistance since Ghana’s independence. He recalled bilateral consultations held in Jerusalem in January. These discussions reviewed cooperation and set future priorities. They reaffirmed commitments to deepen economic, trade, and investment ties. These are aligned with Ghana’s development goals.

Mr. Adjei pointed out opportunities resulting from Ghana’s key initiatives. These include the 24-Hour Economy policy and the Big Push Infrastructure Programme. The Volta Economic Corridor Project and One District, One Factory are also relevant. These programmes offer “concrete avenues for enhanced collaboration with Israeli partners.” Mr. Adjei believes Israeli expertise and investment can boost productivity. They can also enhance industrial capacity and drive digital transformation. Job creation is another expected benefit. He stressed expanding cooperation in health, education, and innovation. He welcomed MASHAV’s continued work in skills development and knowledge transfer. Modern farming practices are a particular focus.