In what was noted as only the sixth and final White House State Dinner, President and Mrs. John Kufuor of Ghana were honored by President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush for their extraordinary leadership in Ghana and friendship with the United States.

Attending the September 16 event was Compassion International President, Dr. Wess Stafford, who was invited by President Kufuor. Compassion International continues to serve 14,500 children in 70 churches in Ghana, working to release children and families from the destructive effects of poverty.

Selfless Leadership

"One of the things I greatly admire about President Kufuor," states Stafford, "is how beloved he is in his home country of Ghana. I was told that if the people could elect him to a third term, they would. That kind of leadership is greatly needed in Africa and it shows a deep love and concern for people and country."

Stafford shook President Kufuor's hand and thanked him personally for the selfless leadership he has shown across the continent of Africa. Stafford complimented Kufuor on the stability and example he brings to the region, which is one of the reasons that Compassion currently headquarters its Area office in Ghana's capital.

"At a time of political instability, Kufuor had the courage and integrity to demonstrate transition from one president to the next," said Stafford.

A Bright Future

The resounding message of the September evening was the great friendship Ghana shares with the United States. According to the Washington Post, Kufuor called Bush "a great man . . . a strong man" and the "most supportive of American presidents toward Africa." He drew laughs by pointing out that he and Bush took office the same year and will leave in the same year.

President Bush's father, former President George H.W. Bush, has been a committed, long-time Compassion sponsor to a child in the Philippines. 

During the jovial evening, Stafford shared a personal conversation with President Kufuor's wife, Theresa, and thanked her for her dedicated service to the children of Compassion in Ghana. 

States Stafford, "I believe in Ghana and the future of Ghana, but mostly, I am honored to take part in a successful future in Ghana."

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