New US Envoy Vows to Deepen Ghana-US Ties Ahead of 70th Anniversary
Pam DeVolder has hit the ground running in Accra. The new US Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy brings a wealth of experience in diplomacy, public engagement, and cultural affairs, and she has a clear message: Ghana and the United States are entering an exciting new chapter of cooperation.
Her arrival sets the stage for a major milestone. In 2027, the two nations will mark 70 years of formal diplomatic relations. For DeVolder, this is not just a date on the calendar; it is a springboard for fresh opportunities in education, business, and people-to-people connections.
What does the new US Public Affairs Officer bring to Ghana?
DeVolder was formally welcomed at a reception in Accra on Thursday by Chargé d'Affaires Rolf Olson. He praised her extensive background, which spans assignments across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Olson stressed that her strength lies in building genuine relationships with local communities, a key ingredient in the Ghana-US partnership.
Her resume is impressive. She previously served as Cultural Affairs Attaché at the US Embassy in London from 2023 to 2026. Before that, she held senior public affairs roles in Vietnam, Poland, and Laos, with earlier postings in Germany, Malawi, and Cambodia. She holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Washington.
Why is public diplomacy key for Ghana and the US?
The embassy's Public Diplomacy Section handles media relations, cultural programs, educational exchanges, and digital communications. Olson noted that in 2026 alone, the team was deeply involved in activities around the FIFA World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
According to Olson, this work is vital. It builds mutual understanding through education, culture, and media. It is the human side of international relations, and it is where DeVolder is expected to shine.
What is DeVolder's vision for education and business ties?
DeVolder says she is honoured to be in Ghana. Her time in London gave her direct contact with Ghanaian creatives and private sector leaders, and she was struck by their talent and warmth. A visit to Washington, D.C., in August, where she met Ghanaian diplomats and diaspora members at Howard University, only reinforced her enthusiasm.
She is eager to explore beyond Accra. Her first trip will take her to Kumasi for an education fair, where she will meet university partners. She has made it clear that education, entrepreneurship, science, and technology are top priorities. The embassy is already working to expand opportunities for Ghanaians to study in the US.
What does the 70th anniversary mean for the future?
DeVolder sees the 2027 anniversary as a pivotal moment. She has pledged to work tirelessly to take the partnership forward. For Ghanaian entrepreneurs, students, and creatives, this signals a renewed focus on tangible cooperation and shared growth.
The message from the US mission is simple: the relationship is strong, and it is about to get even stronger.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Pam DeVolder?
Pam DeVolder is the new US Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy in Accra. She is a career diplomat with extensive experience in public diplomacy across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
When will Ghana and the US celebrate 70 years of relations?
The two countries will mark 70 years of formal diplomatic relations in 2027.
What are DeVolder's main priorities in Ghana?
Her priorities include education, entrepreneurship, science, and technology, with a focus on expanding study opportunities for Ghanaians in the United States.