By Zobia Zulfqar 
President John Dramani Mahama has paid glowing tribute to the late Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, describing the former Foreign Affairs Minister and veteran diplomat as a rare nation builder whose decades of dedicated public service strengthened Ghana’s international reputation and inspired generations of public servants.
The President delivered the tribute during the State Funeral held in honour of Ambassador Gbeho at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra. The address, read on his behalf, celebrated the late diplomat’s exceptional career, unwavering patriotism and lasting contribution to Ghana’s development and foreign relations.
President Mahama said Ambassador Gbeho belonged to a distinguished class of public servants who devoted their lives to national service with integrity, humility and professionalism.
He noted that the late diplomat represented the very best qualities of leadership, adding that his contributions extended beyond diplomacy to nation building and the promotion of Ghana’s image on the global stage.
According to the President, nations are remembered not only for their economic strength or political influence but also for the character of the men and women who serve them faithfully. He said Ambassador Gbeho embodied those values throughout his long and distinguished career.
“His voice may now be silent, but the respect he earned for Ghana will continue to speak long after his generation has passed,” the President said in his tribute.
President Mahama praised Ambassador Gbeho’s professionalism, sound judgement and exceptional intellect, describing him as a respected statesman who consistently projected Ghana’s interests with dignity and confidence wherever he served.
He said the late diplomat never pursued public office for personal recognition but dedicated himself to serving the nation with honour and commitment.
“He did not seek greatness. He sought only to serve, and greatness found him because he served with honour,” the President stated.
The tribute highlighted Ambassador Gbeho’s calm leadership style, noting that he remained firm in his convictions while maintaining humility and respect for others throughout his public service career.
President Mahama observed that wherever Ambassador Gbeho represented Ghana, he earned admiration for his honesty, diplomacy and unwavering commitment to excellence.
He added that the late diplomat strengthened Ghana’s standing internationally through years of distinguished service in various leadership and diplomatic positions.
The President also praised Ambassador Gbeho’s ability to build relationships across nations and cultures, describing him as an outstanding representative of Ghana whose work contributed significantly to peace, cooperation and international understanding.
He said Ambassador Gbeho’s legacy would continue to inspire young diplomats, civil servants and future national leaders who aspire to serve their country with dedication and integrity.
The State Funeral attracted a wide range of dignitaries from Ghana and abroad, reflecting the immense respect Ambassador Gbeho commanded during his lifetime.
Among those present were senior government officials, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional authorities, religious leaders, former public officials and representatives of regional and international organisations.
Family members, friends and former colleagues gathered to celebrate the life and achievements of a man widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most accomplished diplomats.
Several speakers at the ceremony described Ambassador Gbeho as a bridge builder who promoted dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect throughout his diplomatic career.
They noted that his contributions to Ghana’s foreign policy and international engagement helped strengthen the country’s reputation as a respected voice within Africa and the wider international community.
President Mahama extended the nation’s deepest condolences to the bereaved family and expressed gratitude for Ambassador Gbeho’s lifelong service to Ghana.
He assured the family that the country would continue to remember and honour the sacrifices and achievements of the late diplomat, whose legacy would remain an enduring part of Ghana’s national history.
The President urged Ghanaians, particularly young public servants, to emulate Ambassador Gbeho’s values of integrity, patriotism, humility and selfless service.
He said the greatest tribute the nation could pay to the late statesman was to uphold the principles he lived by and continue working together to build a stronger, more united and prosperous Ghana.
Ambassador James Victor Gbeho is remembered as one of Ghana’s most distinguished diplomats, whose lifelong commitment to public service, international cooperation and national development earned him widespread respect both at home and abroad. His contributions continue to serve as an enduring example of leadership rooted in honour, professionalism and unwavering dedication to country.
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