Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Biography : From Student Activist to Foreign Affairs Minister

He attended Presbyterian Boys' Senior Secondary School (Presec‑Legon), where he was Scripture Union Vice President.

Jun 23, 2025 - 07:17
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Biography : From Student Activist to Foreign Affairs Minister
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Biography : From Student Activist to Foreign Affairs Minister

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was born on August 11, 1980, in Aveyime‑Battor, Volta Region, Ghana. He attended Presbyterian Boys' Senior Secondary School (Presec‑Legon), where he was Scripture Union Vice President. He holds a BA in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of Ghana, and an MA in Communication, Media & PR from the University of Leicester.

He also holds an LLB from the University of London, an MSc in Defence & International Politics from the Ghana Armed Forces Command & Staff College, and an Executive Certificate in Leadership from Harvard Kennedy School.

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Student Leadership & Early Career


At university level, Ablakwa was President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) between 2005 and 2006 and helped draft youth policies for the NDC's 2008 manifesto.
Before parliament, he was MD at Savvi Solutions and branch manager at Carrera Computers.



Entry into Politics & Deputy Minister Positions


Ablakwa was first elected at the age of 28 in 2008 to the North Tongu seat with nearly 79% of the votes; in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024.
Ablakwa was the youngest Ghanaian Deputy Minister for Information (2009–2013) during the presidency of President Atta Mills, who later also worked as Deputy Minister of Education (Tertiary) during the presidency of President Mahama (2013–2017).

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Biography : From Student Activist to Foreign Affairs Minister



Parliamentary Leadership & Anti‑Corruption


As Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member of Parliament (2017–2024) and first Chairman of Parliament's reformed Assurances Committee, Ablakwa solidified his government role.
He currently chairs "Operation Recover All Loot" (ORAL), Ghana's flagship anti-corruption program under President Mahama.



Appointment as Foreign Affairs Minister


Ablakwa was appointed on January 22, 2025, and later sworn in on February 7, 2025, as Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs—the youngest to date in the Fourth Republic.
He has since presided over diplomatic victories, including Ghana's sweep of the February 2025 AU elections—carrying off three prized seats.

Constituency Impact & Development Work


Ablakwa's activism transcends Parliament: he organized relief during Volta Dam flood and COVID‑19, initiated education and healthcare reforms, and provided scholarships—including for an 8‑year‑old 2022 reading champion

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Biography : From Student Activist to Foreign Affairs Minister



Awards & Recognition


His awards include an honorary doctorate by India's AMET University, "Most Impactful MP" (2024), being featured in the "2025 Most Influential 100 Africans," and an award by Ghana's Medical, Nursing, and Kufuor Foundation for leadership and ethical conduct



Personal Life & Affiliations


Ablakwa is married to Nuhela Seidu, a lawyer, and has two children.
Ablakwa is a committed Christian and nephew of reputable lawyer Sam Okudzeto . Ablakwa is affiliated to groups such as Parliamentarians for Global Action, African Leadership Network, and Ghana‑Cuba Parliamentary Friendship Association.

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Looking Ahead: A Diplomatic Vision for Ghana


Okudzeto Ablakwa combines youthful vision with seasoned experience.
As Foreign Affairs Minister, he is for cheap diplomacy—from simpler passports to amplifying Ghana's voice in the AU. His integrity-driven policy and vision-driven leadership make us think he will continue to redefine Ghana's global influence and fight for accountability at home