Lebanese Ambassador Maher Kheir recognised among Ghana’s most influential people
The Ambassador of Lebanon to Ghana, His Excellency Maher Kheir, has been honoured as one of Ghana’s 100 Most Influential People at the prestigious 2024 Most Influential People Awards (MIPA).
The event held on November 21, 2024, at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, celebrated his impactful leadership and notable contributions to Ghana’s socio-economic and cultural development.
H.E. Maher Kheir, who also serves as the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Ghana and President of the Francophone Ambassadors’ Group, received the award in recognition of his visionary leadership and dedication to fostering stronger ties between Lebanon and Ghana.
Under Ambassador Kheir’s leadership, the Lebanese Embassy has significantly expanded its educational scholarship programme, now supporting students in diverse disciplines such as public relations, performing arts, film and television, and translation, alongside its existing focus on law, journalism, and media management.
The initiative has also birthed the Lebanese Scholarship Alumni Network (LESAN), through which alumni engage in humanitarian projects that address pressing community needs in Ghana.
In addition to his work in education, Ambassador Kheir has advanced parliamentary diplomacy through the Lebanon-Ghana Parliamentary Friendship Association, fostering closer collaboration between the two nations. His efforts in promoting trade, cultural exchange, and economic co-operation have further strengthened Lebanon-Ghana relations.
Accepting the award, Ambassador Kheir expressed gratitude to the organisers, dedicating the honour to the people of Lebanon, who, he noted, are enduring significant challenges.
“This award is proof of the Lebanese resilient spirit,” he remarked. “The Lebanese people played and continue to play a major role in many sectors like culture, arts, fashion, trade, economy, tourism, and more.”
He also extended his dedication to the Ghanaian people, acknowledging their strength, resilience, and unity, which have inspired his diplomatic efforts.
“Influence is not measured by words alone but by actions that resonate, ideas that innovate, and the courage to lead in the face of challenges,” he stated.
Ambassador Kheir highlighted the pressing global challenges of economic and social inequality, the defense of human rights, and the impacts of conflict and instability. He called for strong leadership, resilience, and commitment to address these issues.
“Each of you has shown that one person can indeed make a difference, and together, we can move mountains,” he told his fellow honourees. “You represent the potential to create a better future through action and leadership.”
He congratulated the other award recipients for their accomplishments, urging them to continue inspiring future generations.
The Most Influential People Awards (MIPA) is an annual event organised by the Business Executive Group to honour individuals whose achievements and leadership have profoundly impacted Ghana’s socio-economic, political, and cultural landscapes.