Singapore has paid floral tribute to Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama, naming a new orchid hybrid in his honor during an official visit aimed at deepening bilateral ties.
The orchid, Vanda John Dramani Mahama, was unveiled at a ceremony held at the National Orchid Garden, a prominent feature of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The event is part of a longstanding tradition in Singapore known as “orchid diplomacy,” where new hybrids are named after visiting dignitaries as a gesture of respect and friendship.
President Mahama, who is in Singapore to promote cooperation in trade, education, and sustainable development, toured the gardens, signed the official visitors’ book, and received a briefing on the site’s ecological and historical significance.
The Vanda hybrid now joins an exclusive list of orchid dedications honoring world leaders, including Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, and Barack Obama.
The Singaporean Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the honor as a reflection of “growing diplomatic and cultural ties” between Singapore and Ghana. The orchid symbolizes not just beauty and resilience, officials noted, but also shared aspirations for global cooperation.
Mahama’s visit is part of a broader push by Ghana to expand its diplomatic footprint in Southeast Asia, as the West African nation seeks new partners in technology and investment.
