The Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Ghana, H.E. Paskal A.B. Rois, has hosted a delegation of Indonesian Reverend Sisters serving in Accra during a courtesy visit aimed at fostering stronger collaboration and welcoming newly posted missionaries to the country. The delegation was led by Rev. Sr. Imelda Mali.
The newly arrived Sisters, who will be assigned to various missions across Ghana, include two who will soon undertake regional postings—one to South Sudan next year and another to Zambia. The visit allowed them to formally introduce themselves and to receive guidance and encouragement from the Honorary Consul.
During the meeting, the Sisters expressed profound appreciation for the support they continue to receive from H.E. Rois. They described him as a dependable advocate for their wellbeing, noting his consistent responsiveness to their needs. They also extended gratitude to his wife, Mrs. Gifty Etsa Rois, who they said plays a vital role in ensuring their comfort and safety, especially when the Honorary Consul is out of the country.
H.E. Rois commended the Indonesian community for their exemplary conduct, stating that he has never received any negative reports concerning Indonesian nationals from Ghana’s security agencies during his tenure. He encouraged the Sisters to maintain the same high standards of discipline and integrity that have earned them respect in the country.
Touching on history, the Honorary Consul shared the remarkable story of the Belanda Hitam—approximately 3,000 Ghanaian soldiers recruited between 1831 and 1872 to serve in the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army in Java. Their presence left a lasting impact on Indonesian society and continues to symbolize the long-standing historical links between the two nations. He also highlighted the Java Museum in Elmina, which documents this unique heritage.
The Sisters also used the opportunity to appeal for immigration support, particularly the possibility of waivers or special considerations for missionaries who have lived in Ghana for more than seven years. H.E. Rois assured them that he would engage the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to explore the matter.
On the diplomatic front, the Honorary Consul briefed the delegation on developments following his recent high-level visit to Indonesia. He revealed that Ghana is expected to commence local vaccine production early next year with the support of the Indonesian government—an initiative aligned with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision to position Ghana as the Vaccine Manufacturing Hub of West Africa and Africa. He further announced that Indonesia plans to open an Embassy in Ghana in 2026, a move expected to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation. Ghana is anticipated to reciprocate by establishing its own mission in Indonesia.
H.E. Rois also praised the remarkable contributions of Indonesian missionaries across Ghana, where many serve in health facilities, churches, schools, and community outreach programs. Their work, he said, continues to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The meeting ended with H.E. Rois expressing gratitude for the visit and reaffirming his commitment to supporting the Sisters as they continue their missionary work in Ghana.
