Story By: Felix Ernest Odamtten / Muhammad Faisal Mustapha….
As the year draws to a close and the festive season fills homes across Ghana and South Africa with warmth and reflection, H.E. Thando Dalamba, Acting South African High Commissioner to Ghana, has delivered a powerful Christmas and New Year message one anchored in gratitude, responsibility, faith, and the enduring bond between nations.
In an exclusive interview with Felix Ernest Odamtten / Muhammad Faisal Mustapha, the seasoned diplomat extended heartfelt wishes to her staff, the South African community in Ghana, and the Ghanaian public at large, urging citizens to celebrate responsibly while keeping faith, safety, and unity at the center of the season.
At the heart of H.E. Dalamba’s message was a deep appreciation for the dedication of her team and the spirit of cooperation that continues to define South Africa Ghana relations.
“This season reminds us that public service is ultimately about people,” she said. “I want to sincerely thank every member of staff at the High Commission for their professionalism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment throughout the year.”
She noted that diplomacy, particularly in challenging global times, requires resilience and shared purpose values she says her team has embodied consistently.
“Our work is not just administrative; it is human. It is about building bridges, fostering trust, and strengthening the historic friendship between South Africa and Ghana.”
“Diplomacy is not only conducted in meeting rooms it is lived daily through respect, humility, and service.”
While acknowledging the joy and togetherness that define Christmas, H.E. Dalamba issued a firm but compassionate call for personal and collective responsibility during the festivities.
“Christmas is a time of celebration, but it must also be a time of care,” she emphasized. “I urge everyone to watch what they consume, to avoid drinking and driving, and to make choices that protect lives.”
Her message comes amid annual concerns about road safety during the festive period a challenge shared by many countries across the continent.
“No celebration is worth a life lost. Let us return safely to our families after every gathering.”
In a deeply reflective moment of the interview, H.E. Dalamba spoke about the spiritual essence of the season, encouraging citizens to reconnect with the core values of Christmas.
“Beyond the lights, the music, and the meals, Christmas calls us to remember Jesus Christ His teachings of love, compassion, humility, and forgiveness,” she said.
He stressed that faith, regardless of background, offers a moral compass for leadership and citizenship alike.
“When Christ is our ultimate focus, our actions naturally align with peace, kindness, and responsibility toward one another.”
“When Christ is our focus, our choices reflect love, restraint, and respect for life.”
Turning her gaze to the new year, the Acting High Commissioner expressed optimism for 2026, highlighting opportunities for deeper cooperation between South Africa and Ghana in diplomacy, trade, culture, and people to people relations.
“The year ahead offers renewed hope,” she said. “I am confident that together we will continue to strengthen our partnerships and create shared prosperity for our peoples.”
He concluded with a message that blended diplomacy, humanity, and faith:
“May 2026 bring peace to our homes, wisdom to our leaders, and unity to our nations.”
H.E. Dalamba closed the interview with a simple but resonant message:
“I wish all our staff, our South African community in Ghana, and all citizens a Merry Christmas and a prosperous, peaceful, and fulfilling New Year.”