Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that two Ghanaian nationals held as prisoners of war in Ukraine are alive and in good condition following a rare visit to a high-security detention facility.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Minister revealed that he was granted special access to the fortified camp where the two Ghanaians are being detained.
He expressed gratitude to Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, for approving his request.
“I can confirm that our citizens are alive and well. Their rights under international law have been commendably respected by Ukrainian authorities,” he stated.
Mr Ablakwa noted that the visit was described as unusual and the first of its kind by an African Foreign Minister, highlighting the significance of Ukraine’s approval as a diplomatic gesture.
He added that the access granted strengthens confidence in ongoing negotiations aimed at securing the release of the two Ghanaians.
The Minister further disclosed that the detainees — whose identities remain confidential for security reasons — expressed their determination to advocate against human trafficking upon their release.
“They have indicated their willingness to dedicate themselves to educating vulnerable Africans on the dangers and deceptive tactics used by trafficking syndicates to lure individuals into conflict zones,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa emphasized that the visit reflects the strong bilateral relations between Ghana and Ukraine and boosts hopes for a successful resolution of the matter.
Last night I was given a rare access to the highly fortified security camp where prisoners of war are being detained in Ukraine.
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) February 26, 2026
I thank President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha for granting my request to visit the two Ghanaian prisoners of war.
I can… pic.twitter.com/qFL4aiDyl8
