Social media in Ghana has been abuzz with debate on a recent news story.
Kojo Choi, a naturalised Ghanaian citizen, was recently appointed as Ghana’s Ambassador-designate to South Korea.
His selection by President John Dramani Mahama marks a historic milestone—the first time an individual of Korean descent has been offered an ambassadorial position in Ghana’s history.
Choi, a naturalized Ghanaian citizen of 33 years, has lived in Ghana since he was 14 years old.
He became a naturalised citizen in the 2000s.
“I am not African because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me,” Choi wrote in a June Facebook post, quoting Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
The picture was posted alongside the text, which depicted a younger version of Choi in a Ghanaian school uniform in high school.
Choi’s Credentials
Choi has served in consulting roles for the Korean Embassy and multinational companies.
He is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in West African business, particularly in telecommunications, financial technology, marketing communications, and consultancy.
He is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PaySwitch Limited, a Ghanaian fintech company that was established in 2015.
The company processes payments with international card schemes like Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay. The platform is also directly connected to mobile money operators such as MTN, Vodafone, and AT Ghana (formerly) AirtelTigo.
In 2022, Choi launched an initiative to promote Ghanaian and African art globally called Art Africa in Osu.
Buzz On Social Media
Mr Choi’s appointment caught the eye of users on social media. Some voiced skepticism and surprise at his background, questioning his Ghanaian authenticity.
Others were more supportive of the move.
Ibrahim Alhassan, Head Editor of the EIB network in Ghana, stated that this recent appointment could provide advantages for Ghana.
“If Mr. Kojo Choi’s appointment as Ghana’s Ambassador to South Korea brings any advantage, then why not support it?” he asked.
According to the presidency, Mr Choi’s appointments, including other nominees, will help enhance Ghana’s bilateral cooperation, promote trade and cultural exchanges, and strengthen the nation’s global presence.
Mr Choi will be sworn in as an official ambassador to Korea in the coming months.
