Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that two Ghanaian nationals being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine are alive, in good health, and being treated in accordance with international law.

The minister disclosed this after what he described as rare access to a highly fortified security camp where the detainees are being held.

According to him, the visit followed special approval from Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who granted his request to personally see the two Ghanaians.

Ablakwa said he was able to verify firsthand that both men are alive and well, adding that Ukrainian authorities have respected their rights under international law.

He expressed appreciation to the Ukrainian leadership for accommodating what he described as an unusual diplomatic request, noting that he was informed it marked the first time an African foreign minister had sought such access.

The minister said the gesture reflects the cordial bilateral relations between Ghana and Ukraine and has strengthened his confidence in ongoing negotiations aimed at securing the release of the two citizens.

He further revealed that the detainees, whose identities are being withheld for security reasons, shared a renewed sense of purpose.

According to him, they indicated their determination to speak out against trafficking networks and help educate vulnerable Africans about the dangers that can lead to such predicaments.

Government officials say diplomatic engagements are continuing as efforts intensify to bring the two Ghanaians safely back home.