Outgoing US Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Rolf Olson, has bid farewell to Ghana as he concludes his diplomatic assignment in the country after approximately 25 years of service in the United States Foreign Service.
Olson Meets Ablakwa to Strengthen Ghana-US Relations
As part of his farewell engagements, Mr Olson paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra on Monday, November 9, 2026.
During the meeting, Mr Ablakwa described the outgoing US diplomat as a great friend of Ghana and commended his contribution to strengthening relations between the two countries, particularly in education and security.
The discussions provided an opportunity to reflect on key achievements in Ghana-US relations during Mr Olson’s tenure and explore opportunities for further cooperation.
Among the achievements highlighted by the Foreign Affairs Minister were diplomatic engagements that secured the removal of Ghana from US visa restrictions, the restoration of five-year multiple-entry visas for Ghanaian travellers and special trade arrangements under the US administration’s tariff regime.
Mr Ablakwa also acknowledged US support in airlifting Ghanaian Armed Forces personnel and equipment to Jamaica to assist with humanitarian and reconstruction efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
On security matters, Mr Olson briefed the Minister on progress in investigations into the death of 15-year-old Ghanaian teenager Javits Frimpong in New York. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice in the case.
US Diplomat Pays Farewell Visit to President Mahama
As part of his farewell activities, Mr Olson also paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House to formally bid farewell at the conclusion of his diplomatic assignment.
During the meeting, the outgoing US diplomat expressed appreciation to President Mahama for the warmth, hospitality and friendship extended to him by the Ghanaian people throughout his stay in the country.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship and partnership between Ghana and the United States.
Ghana, US Prepare to Mark 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations
The farewell engagements come as Ghana and the United States prepare to commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations in March 2027, having established formal diplomatic ties on March 6, 1957.
Mr Olson joined the US Department of State as a career Foreign Service Officer in 2001. Before his assignment in Ghana, he served in several diplomatic postings across Africa, South America, Pakistan and Washington.
He assumed responsibility for leading the US Embassy in Accra as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim on May 29, 2025, following the departure of former US Ambassador Virginia Palmer.
His departure marks the conclusion of his diplomatic assignment in Ghana and approximately 25 years of service in the US Foreign Service.
