Eye surgeon Leonard Teye-Botchway has been appointed the first-ever honorary consul for Ghana in Bermuda.

Dr Teye-Botchway, 55, hails from the west African country, but has lived in Bermuda for 13 years. He’s married to Ronita and has three sons.

His appointment marks the first time that an honorary consul has been appointed in Bermuda for any African country. He said: “I feel quite honoured and at the same time, humbled and grateful.”

Dr Teye-Botchway said there are around 100 Ghanians in Bermuda working in areas including hospitality, accounting and law. His role covers several areas. “The consular aspect of the job will be helping people from Ghana who find themselves in personal difficulties or require services related to consular matters,” he said.

Dr Teye-Bothway will also assist Ghanian interests in Bermuda and may represent the country at official events.

Another aspect of the job will be promoting the attractions of his homeland which, he said, is a thriving democracy boasting historic castles and beautiful game reserves.

“Of late there’s been an increased interest in visiting Ghana. I’m sure I will be able to help with providing visitors with information about tourist sites and businesses,” he explained.

Heralding the appointment which stemmed from a recommendation from previous Governor Sir John Vereker Governor Sir Richard Gozney said: “Like others, I welcome the decision of Ghana to appoint an honorary consul in Bermuda, especially a well respected professional of Dr Teye-Botchway’s standing. I believe that there will be some consular business for him, including Ghanaian sailors from ships which are changing crews.”

Contact details for the honorary consul will be announced shortly, as soon as an office has been set up.