Diplomats call for united Africa to achieve real transformation

…eulogise Namibian Ambassador, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, as her tenure ends

Diplomats gathered at the 35^th Namibian Independence Day commemoration and farewell ceremony for the outgoing Ambassador, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, have rallied around the vision of a united and self-reliant Africa, especially in light of recent global shifts in aid and trade tariffs.

Dean of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), Kufo Edward Chinoza, emphasised the need for a united Africa – not only on paper but in action – leveraging the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for improved intra-African Trade and movement.

Also at the heart of this clarion call is a move toward visa-free travel across the region, a step that not only eases mobility but also symbolises a deeper commitment to pan-African integration.

“Only a united Africa can dismantle colonial-era borders, boosting intra-African trade and laying the groundwork for a continent-wide economic and political rebirth,” he said.

On behalf of the SADC diplomats, he also wished the outgoing ambassador and former Secretary of SADC all the best in her next chapter as Minister for International Relations and Trade in Namibia.

“My sister Selma, I know you will do well; and once you do well, I want to believe that some of us ambassadors will be promoted to ministers around the world. We hope you have taken a good lead and will show by your good work that it can be done by ambassadors,” he concluded.

Similarly, Suriname’s Ambassador and Plenipotentiary to Ghana, Fidelia Graand-Galon, taking her turn, highlighted that Africa and the Caribbean – especially Ghana and Suriname – share strong historical connections that hark back to the transatlantic slave era.

She expressed the need for both regions to unite and leverage common ancestry to promote trade, culture and entertainment.

But for this to be successful, she emphasised the need for African countries to be united first before exploring the diaspora community with African roots.

Togbe Afede XIV, Executive Chairman of Sunon Asogli Power Ghana, added his voice to the need for African countries to trade with each other and eliminate barriers to free movement to stand united.

He envisions an Africa where indigents can move around with fewer restrictions and harassment from security services because of nationality and language differences, because all Africans are one people.

He also commended Selma for her good works as an ambassador in promoting trade, culture and responsible bilateral relationships between Namibia and Ghana and other diplomats in Ghana.

End of Ambassador Selma Ashipala-Musavyi’s Diplomatic Tenure in Ghana

The Namibian Ambassador, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, officially concluded her diplomatic tenure in Ghana on June 4, 2025 following her appointment to a new role as Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade.

A farewell ceremony held at the Namibian Ambassador’s residence in Accra brought together a distinguished assembly of political leaders, traditional rulers, diplomats and business associates.

In attendance were several high-profile dignitaries including Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV; Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak; and a delegation from the National House of Chiefs.

The interior minister extended government’s warm wishes to the outgoing ambassador, praising her for strengthening Ghana–Namibia relations over the years and congratulating her on the new appointment.

Throughout her tenure, Ambassador Ashipala-Musavyi has been widely recognised for her diplomatic contributions and efforts to promote bilateral cooperation, trade and cultural exchange between Ghana and Namibia.

Her new appointment as Minister of International Relations and Trade marks a new chapter in her distinguished career and her farewell was filled with emotion, pride and gratitude for the lasting partnerships she helped forge.

A farewell message from staff of the Namibia High Commission read: “Dear Hon. Minister, as you transition to your new role, we wanted to express our sincere appreciation for your leadership and guidance during your tenure here. Your dedication and positive attitude have been invaluable to us. We wish you all the best in your new mandate and we do not doubt that you will continue to fly the Namibian Flag high”.

The Ambassador expressed her appreciation to the government of Ghana, diplomatic community and all dignitaries, as well as staff who supported her during her service in the country.

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