The Paramount Chief of the Gbese Traditional Council, Nii Ayi Bonte II, has hosted two high-ranking security officials at the Gbese Mantse Palace in Accra—Samuel Basentale Amadu, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), and Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service (GPS).
The separate courtesy visits were part of efforts by the newly appointed service heads to deepen ties with traditional leadership and familiarize themselves with their areas of operation.
Cultural Rites and Reception
Both delegations were welcomed with traditional rites and prayers, along with customary presentations of drinks, reflecting the importance of cultural protocol and respect.
Nii Ayi Bonte II expressed appreciation for the visits and pledged his support for the mandates of both institutions. He described the engagements as significant steps toward fostering closer collaboration between state agencies and traditional authorities.
Immigration and Economic Development
Addressing the GIS delegation, the Chief emphasized the vital role of immigration in national security and economic growth. He highlighted the strategic location of the Gbese Traditional Area, which encompasses Accra’s Central Business District—a growing hub for trade and foreign investment.
“With the rollout of the 24-hour economy policy by President John Mahama, we expect a boom in retail and international commerce,” Nii Ayi Bonte said. “We hope to work with you to ensure immigration procedures are business-friendly.”
He also appealed for the inclusion of Gbese youth in GIS recruitment, noting their potential and commitment to national service.
Mr. Amadu, in turn, acknowledged the importance of Ga land to the service’s headquarters and reiterated his dedication to building a stronger relationship with the local community.
“Your Royal Majesty, this visit symbolizes our intent to elevate our partnership with the Gbese Traditional Council,” he said.
Prisons Service and Reform Agenda
During her visit, Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie outlined her vision to transform the Prisons Service into a modern, rehabilitative institution that offers inmates a genuine second chance.
“Our facilities house people from all walks of life—some misunderstood, some misguided—but it’s our mission to rehabilitate, not simply incarcerate,” she stated. “Expect to see major reforms in how we serve the public and those in our custody.”
Nii Ayi Bonte commended her leadership and said her appointment reflected the confidence placed in her by the President.
“The Prisons Service is a vital pillar in national development,” he said. “Your commitment to reform shows you’re ready to move the institution forward.”