In an atmosphere filled with warmth and reflection, a delegation of Indonesian Reverend Sisters serving in Accra paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Paskal A.B. Rois, Honorary Consul of Indonesia in Ghana. Led by Rev. Sr. Imelda Mali, the group introduced newly arrived Sisters who will serve in various missions across the country—some embarking on journeys as far as South Sudan and Zambia.
The visit quickly turned into an engaging conversation about Ghana’s hospitality, a quality the Sisters say has allowed them to thrive in their missionary work. They praised H.E. Rois for his unwavering support and spoke fondly of his wife, Mrs. Gifty Etsa Rois, who ensures they feel at home even when the Consul is away.
For H.E. Rois, the gathering was an opportunity to express pride in the conduct of Indonesians in Ghana. He highlighted that he has never received any complaint or report of misconduct involving Indonesian nationals since assuming office—something he attributed to their discipline and sense of mission.
But the meeting also uncovered a surprising historical connection that left the Sisters intrigued. The Consul recounted the story of the “Belanda Hitam,” or Black Dutchmen—Ghanaian soldiers recruited from Elmina in the 19th century to serve in the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army in Java. Some settled permanently in Indonesia, enriching its cultural tapestry. Today, their legacy is preserved at the Java Museum in Elmina, a testament to centuries-old ties between the two nations.
The Sisters also raised concerns about renewal challenges for missionaries who have lived in Ghana for over seven years and appealed for possible waivers. H.E. Rois pledged to engage the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on their behalf.
Looking toward the future, the Consul spoke of deepening Ghana–Indonesia cooperation. He revealed that Ghana is on track to produce its first vaccines next year with Indonesia’s support—advancing President John Dramani Mahama’s ambition to make Ghana a continental vaccine hub. Another milestone awaits in 2026 when Indonesia opens an Embassy in Ghana, with Ghana expected to reciprocate.
Before the meeting ended, H.E. Rois expressed admiration for the contributions of Indonesian missionaries, who serve in hospitals, schools, churches, and community development programs across Ghana. He encouraged the Sisters to continue sharing stories of Ghana’s peace and hospitality with the world.
With smiles and words of gratitude, the Reverend Sisters left assured of the Honorary Consul’s continued support—carrying with them a renewed sense of mission and a deeper appreciation of the history that binds Ghana and Indonesia.
