NPP Russia leadership meets envoy Jehu-Appiah in Moscow to forge diaspora economic bridge

A delegation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Russia Branch paid a courtesy visit to Ghana’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, H.E. Dr. Koma Steem Jehu-Appiah, at the Ghanaian Embassy in Moscow on Monday, October 27, 2025.

The strategic engagement centred on leveraging the diaspora’s political and economic capital to enhance national development and strengthen the Ghana-Russia bilateral relationship, which saw bilateral trade exceeding US$850 million in 2023.

The NPP delegation featured a blend of leadership, including the Chairperson Abongo Mashood Jacob, Vice Chairman Ebenezer Wepari, the Deputy Women’s Organiser Emmanuella Osei, and Party Elder Kobby Oduro.

Ambassador Jehu-Appiah warmly received the delegation, commending the NPP Russia Branch for its dedication and active involvement in national affairs from afar.

He used the platform to reinforce the embassy’s role as a non-partisan institution committed to Ghanaian welfare.

He reiterated the embassy’s open-door policy and unwavering commitment to serving all Ghanaians, irrespective of their political affiliations.

The Ambassador provided key insights into the bilateral agenda, noting that the relationship is currently focused on deepening cooperation in trade, education, and cultural exchange.

Russia is a major supplier to Ghana, with exports primarily including refined petroleum products (a key import item) and fertilisers.

Conversely, Ghana’s main exports to Russia include oilseed, oleaginous fruits, and cocoa preparations.

The Ambassador encouraged the branch to continue its constructive engagement, serving as a reliable bridge to the Ghanaian community.

The visit successfully reinforced the collective resolve of both the diplomatic mission and the political diaspora to uphold Ghana’s interests and welfare on the international stage.

The meeting, held in an atmosphere described as “warmth and mutual respect”, focused heavily on translating the political base in the diaspora into tangible economic contributions for Ghana.

On his part, Mr Abongo, in his opening remarks, articulated the branch’s unwavering commitment to supporting the embassy’s work, particularly in promoting investment opportunities back home and galvanising support for the NPP’s vision for Ghana.

He emphasised the importance of a strong, unified diaspora in contributing effectively to the nation’s progress.

Elaborating on community initiatives, Vice Chairman Wepari highlighted the branch’s efforts to foster unity among the Ghanaian diaspora and actively create avenues for their participation in national discourse—a crucial element given that diaspora remittances often represent a significant portion of Ghana’s foreign exchange.

The discussion expanded to focus on targeted support for Ghanaian nationals residing in the Federation.

The Deputy Women’s Organiser championed efforts aimed at social mobility.

Ms Osei underscored the importance of empowering Ghanaian women and youth in Russia, advocating for programmes that would provide them with educational and professional development opportunities.

Adding historical context and strategic depth, Party Elder Kobby drew on his extensive experience in transnational politics to advise on necessary synergy.

He offered invaluable insights into the historical trajectory of Ghanaian political activism abroad and emphasised the critical need for continued collaboration between political party structures in the diaspora and diplomatic missions.

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