President Mahama Arrives in Cairo Ahead of Grand Egyptian Museum Opening
Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Cairo ahead of the much-anticipated grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), scheduled for Saturday November 1, 2025
The historic ceremony, taking place under the patronage of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, will host world leaders, monarchs, and dignitaries from across the globe. The event marks the unveiling of what is being described as the world’s largest archaeological museum, overlooking the iconic Giza Pyramids.
The $1 billion cultural landmark, two decades in the making, showcases over 5,000 years of Egyptian civilization. Among its priceless exhibits are 4,500 artifacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamun, displayed together for the first time since their discovery.
President al-Sisi has hailed the GEM as a “symbol of Egypt’s leadership in global culture.” Originally slated for a July opening, the ceremony was delayed due to regional tensions. However, it is now expected to stand as one of the most significant cultural events of the year.
The project is a remarkable example of international cooperation, primarily between Egypt and Japan. Japan contributed ¥84.2 billion (approximately $800 million) in soft loans through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). Japanese conservation experts also trained hundreds of Egyptians in artifact preservation and museum management.
The museum’s opening coincides with a resurgence in Egypt’s tourism sector, which generated $14.4 billion in 2023–2024 and attracted 15 million visitors in the first nine months of 2025.
President Mahama’s attendance underscores Ghana’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and Africa’s growing voice on the global stage. The President was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Dr. Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President; Stanislav Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations); Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs; Abla Gzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism; and COP Nathan Kofi Boakye (Rtd), Director of Operations at the Presidency.
The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a testament to shared human heritage — blending ancient history, modern innovation, and international collaboration to celebrate the enduring legacy of civilization.
