By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor) enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
History was made last Thursday at the World Trade Center Savannah as the Mayor of Savannah, Van R. Johnson II, formally honoured Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Victor Emmanuel Smith, with the prestigious Key to the City also referred to as the Key of Trust during an honorary reception held in his honour.
The high-level event, hosted at the World Trade Center Savannah on Drayton Street, brought together business leaders, community stakeholders and members of the Ghanaian diaspora to celebrate growing ties between Savannah and the Republic of Ghana.
Presenting the Key of Trust, Mayor Johnson described the gesture as a symbol of confidence, friendship and shared vision.
He explained that the tradition, which dates back to medieval times, signifies the city’s trust in the recipient and recognition of values that align with those of Savannah’s leadership and people.
Mayor Johnson noted that Ambassador Smith’s leadership and diplomatic vision resonate strongly with Savannah’s aspirations for global engagement, trade and cultural exchange, underscoring the strength of relations between the city and Ghana’s diplomatic mission.
Ambassador Smith is believed to be the first ambassador to receive the honour, which has historically been reserved for distinguished civic, cultural and notable individuals, including legendary musician Doc Cheatham.
Speaking at the event, Programs and Community Development Manager at World Trade Center Savannah, Antwone Mohammed, highlighted the importance of the Greater Savannah Ghana Business Forum as a strategic platform for building partnerships.
He said the initiative connects local Ghanaian content with global markets, strengthens economic ties and unlocks new opportunities for both Ghana and Savannah.
Mr. Mohammed added that the World Trade Center Savannah is committed to fostering stronger international trade relations and deepening engagement with Ghana, while also encouraging Ghanaians in the diaspora to return home and contribute to national development efforts.
The evening’s highlight was a keynote address by Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith, who engaged attendees on Ghana’s economic outlook, emerging investment opportunities and the critical role of international collaboration.
He emphasized the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable growth, particularly in trade and investment, and reaffirmed Ghana’s openness to global business and innovation.
The event marked a significant milestone in Ghana–Savannah relations and reinforced shared commitments to diplomacy, economic cooperation and people-to-people engagement.
By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor) enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
+233 541921562
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
Contact:
📞 +233 541 921 562
✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
