Ghana Cracks Down on Embassy Fraud Scheme: Protecting Diaspora Travelers

At African Roots Travel, we believe trust and transparency are essential to the travel experience—especially when it involves international documentation and embassy services. That’s why a recent revelation regarding a visa and passport fraud scheme at Ghana’s embassy in Washington has caught the attention of many, particularly within the global Ghanaian diaspora.

According to official reports, a disturbing five-year scheme operated within the embassy’s visa and passport processing system. A private firm allegedly gained unauthorized access via a link placed on the embassy’s official website. This link redirected unsuspecting applicants—many of them diasporans and travelers eager to reconnect with Ghana—to a third-party site where they were charged inflated, unapproved fees ranging from $30 to $60 for services meant to be handled directly by embassy staff.

It has been alleged that one of the locally recruited staff members at the embassy was directly involved in the scheme, personally profiting from the extra fees without the knowledge of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These actions have been brought to the attention of Ghana’s Attorney General for further investigation and potential prosecution.

In response to the scandal, decisive action has been taken. The Ministry has recalled its Washington-based staff back to Ghana, and all locally hired employees at the embassy have been suspended. This firm stance underscores the Ghanaian government’s ongoing commitment to rooting out corruption and restoring public trust.

“President Mahama’s administration remains committed to a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, abuse of office, and conflict of interest,” stated Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, shedding light on the government's resolve to protect both citizens and visitors engaging with Ghana’s institutions.

As a destination management company serving clients from around the world, African Roots Travel applauds swift government action to uphold the integrity of the visa process. For our travelers, we remain vigilant in guiding you through legitimate and secure channels as you prepare for your journey to the Motherland.

Maurice Cheetham, CEO of African Roots Travel, emphasized the importance of traveler confidence in embassy services:

“Our clients place their trust in the process of returning home—whether for cultural reconnection, investment, or tourism. Any breach of that trust damages not just the individual experience, but the collective faith in our institutions. We commend the swift actions taken and continue to support secure and transparent travel experiences for all who journey to Ghana.”

As a destination management company serving clients from around the world, African Roots Travel applauds the government's proactive steps to uphold the integrity of the visa process. For our travelers, we remain vigilant in guiding you through legitimate and secure channels as you prepare for your journey to the Motherland.

Stay Informed. Travel Smart. Choose Trust. Choose African Roots Travel.