A rare and remarkable photograph has resurfaced on social media from former US President Barack Obama’s historic visit to Ghana in July 2009, capturing a moment that brought together both past and present leaders of the country.
The image shows Barack Obama sharing a warm and memorable moment with then-sitting President John Evans Atta Mills, former Vice President John Dramani Mahama and his spouse Lordina Mahama, late former President Jerry John Rawlings and his spouse late Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, and former President John Agyekum Kufuor and his late spouse Theresa Kufuor.
The gathering took place at the Osu Castle, which still serves as a site of deep historical significance and a former hub of the transatlantic slave trade. The castle now serves as a museum and memorial, symbolising Ghana’s painful history and its enduring resilience.
The photo immortalises a rare occasion when Ghana’s leaders across generations came together to welcome a then-sitting US president.
For many, the moment is widely remembered as one of unity, respect, and a shared acknowledgment of history.
During his visit in July 2009, President Obama engaged in meaningful discussions on Ghana’s democratic progress, its role in African history, and its potential as a model for continental development.
Barack Obama traveled to Ghana to make the final stop of one of his first international trips as US President.
He also delivered a historic speech at Parliament in Accra, highlighting the US-Africa relationship and the partnerships necessary to drive transformational change across the continent.
NB: Although Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo became President of Ghana in 2017, he was not part of this rare moment captured in the photograph.
See the images below
MA