A delegation of Indonesian Reverend Sisters serving in Accra has paid a courtesy call to the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Ghana, H.E Paskal A.B. Rois.
The visit, led by Rev. Sr. Imelda Mali, was primarily to introduce the newly arrived Indonesian Reverend Sisters, who are posted to various missions across Ghana.
Among the new arrivals, were a sister scheduled to depart for missionary work in South Sudan next year, while another will be reassigned to Zambia.
The delegation engaged in warm and insightful discussions centered on the harmonious environment Ghana continues to offer to foreign missionaries, particularly Indonesians.
The Reverend Sisters commended Mr. Rois for his unwavering support, noting that he has always been “approachable, responsive, and committed to ensuring their welfare and smooth integration in Ghana.”
They also expressed gratitude to his wife, Mrs. Gifty Etsa Rois, who has been especially supportive whenever H.E. Rois travels outside the country—ensuring the Sisters always feel welcomed, safe, and at home.
Mr. Rois thanked the delegation for their exemplary conduct, emphasizing that since assuming his role, he has never received any reports from the Ghana Police Service, Immigration Service, or the Ghana Prisons Service concerning misconduct by Indonesians.
He expressed pride in their behavior and encouraged them to continue upholding such values to maintain the peaceful coexistence both nations enjoy.
A Lesson in Shared History: Ghana and Indonesia
In a moment of historical reflection, Mr. Rois shared with the Sisters a lesser known but profound story of Ghana’s historical connection with Indonesia.
He chronicled that between 1831 and 1872, approximately 3,000 Ghanaian soldiers, famously known as Belanda Hitam (Black Dutchmen), were recruited by the Dutch from Elmina to serve in the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army in Java, Indonesia. Many later returned to Ghana, while others settled permanently in Indonesia – contributing to the cultural diversity seen today, including among the Melanesian populations of eastern Indonesia and Papua.
He further highlighted the existence of the Java Museum in Elmina, which “documents the deep historical ties between the two nations”, to the surprise and admiration of the Reverend Sisters who were excited about the enlightening historical account.
Missionary Concerns and Immigration Matters
Speaking on behalf of the group, Rev. Sr. Imelda Mali, appealed to the Honorary Consul to explore the possibility of a waiver for missionaries who have lived in Ghana for more than seven years, “especially regarding residence permit renewals.”
In response, Mr Rois assured them that he would engage the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to determine if such a consideration could be made.
Ghana–Indonesia Cooperation: A Growing Partnership
Mr Rois also briefed the delegation on his recent high-level visit to Indonesia, accompanied by key Ghanaian officials.
He announced that with the continued support of the Indonesian government, Ghana is expected to begin producing its first vaccines by early next year, a significant milestone that aligns with President H.E. John Dramani Mahama’s vision to make Ghana the Vaccine Manufacturing Hub of West Africa and Africa.
“Currently, only South Africa and Senegal are engaged in vaccine production on the continent”, he said.
He further revealed that the Government of Indonesia will establish an Embassy in Ghana in 2026, a development expected to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations.
He said that “it is anticipated that Ghana will reciprocate by opening its Embassy or High Commission in Indonesia.”
The Role of Indonesian Missionaries in Ghana
Mr. Rois acknowledged and praised the extraordinary contributions of Indonesian missionaries in Ghana, with many serving in hospitals, schools, churches, and community support programs, playing vital roles in the development of children, youth, and the elderly across the country.
He encouraged the Sisters to share their experiences with fellow missionaries in Indonesia and around the world, emphasizing Ghana’s peace, hospitality, and cultural warmth.
In conclusion, Mr. Rois thanked the Reverend Sisters for their visit, extended his best wishes for their mission in Ghana, and reaffirmed his readiness to support them at all times.