Mahama Reappoints Sinare as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia in Strategic Diplomatic Move

Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama has tapped seasoned diplomat Alhaji Said Sinare for a return as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, a key posting in Ghana’s foreign policy landscape.
Sinare previously held the position during Mahama’s first term, and his reappointment is seen as a strategic step to strengthen ties with the Gulf nation amid rising bilateral interests.
According to a letter dated July 21 and obtained by our newsroom, Sinare is among eight envoys nominated in a broader diplomatic reshuffle that includes ambassadorial postings to South Korea, Italy, and Kenya.
However, the Saudi Arabia nomination has generated the most attention, highlighting Riyadh’s increasing importance to Ghana’s economic and geopolitical objectives.
“Sinare isn’t just going back as an ambassador he’s Ghana’s chief negotiator in one of our most critical bilateral relationships,” a Foreign Ministry source said, citing Saudi Arabia’s role in oil agreements, Hajj coordination, and infrastructure financing.
Sinare brings with him a distinguished diplomatic track record, having served as Ghana’s envoy to both Saudi Arabia and Egypt. His deep familiarity with Arab diplomacy and established connections across the region are expected to help Ghana attract more Middle Eastern investment.
Analysts view Mahama’s move as a recalibration of foreign policy to focus on competence and continuity. “This is back-to-basics diplomacy,” said Prof. Nana Akosua Ankomah, an international relations expert at the University of Ghana. “We’re seeing a return of experienced professionals who understand how to navigate global interests.”
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has lauded the appointment, describing Sinare as “the right man to reconnect Ghana with our Gulf partners.” During his previous tenure, he played a pivotal role in securing Saudi investments in Ghana’s energy sector.
As Ghana seeks to position itself within shifting global alliances, Mahama’s ambassadorial choices reflect a renewed emphasis on economic diplomacy. The Foreign Ministry is expected to finalize Sinare’s accreditation in the coming weeks, with hopes high that his second stint in Riyadh will yield tangible results, including improved migrant welfare and deepened oil cooperation.