The Ghanaian government assured approximately 340 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa on Saturday night at the Accra International Airport that they are valued citizens, despite recent xenophobic attacks forcing them to abandon homes and businesses. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, welcomed the second batch of returnees, emphasizing their importance to national development and the government’s commitment to their safety and reintegration.
Government Assures Returnees of Value and Support
Addressing the distressed Ghanaians who arrived on a chartered flight, Minister Ablakwa conveyed President John Dramani Mahama’s message of solidarity and support. He directly countered negative perceptions, stating, “To us, you are not any of what those misguided elements have tried to portray you. To us, you are not troublemakers. To us, you are not criminals. To us, you are not people who are unwanted and have nothing to offer. You are treasures, you are special, you are our kinsmen, and we value you.” This statement aimed to reassure those who had lost significant investments and livelihoods due to escalating violence in South Africa.
The evacuation exercise underscores the government’s stance that no Ghanaian citizen should be left vulnerable abroad. While acknowledging the material losses, Ablakwa stressed that the safe return of individuals was paramount. “You have lost property, you have lost assets, you have left your businesses behind, but nothing comes anywhere near life. Once you have life, there is hope,” he remarked.
Diaspora Contributions Highlighted
Minister Ablakwa refuted any notion that Ghanaians living abroad are less deserving of government attention, highlighting their substantial economic contributions. He revealed that remittances from the Ghanaian diaspora reached a record US$7.8 billion last year, making it the second-largest source of foreign exchange earnings for the nation, surpassing key export sectors.
“Ghanaians in the diaspora are not selfish. They send remittances home and take care of their families. If they are in distress, all of us must stand up for them, defend them, protect them, and take them out of harm’s way,” Ablakwa urged, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between the nation and its citizens abroad.
Reintegration and Employment Initiatives
The government is actively working on facilitating the reintegration of the returnees. Efforts are underway to secure employment opportunities, with initial successes reported. A government initiative has already garnered commitments for approximately 200 job openings from companies like Engineers and Planners Limited (100 jobs), telecommunications firms, and other private sector organizations.
Ablakwa encouraged the returnees to leverage their entrepreneurial spirit and determination in Ghana, drawing parallels with successful foreign investors. “Others are coming to Ghana, investing and establishing businesses here. Believe that you can also make it in Ghana, and you will make it in Ghana,” he inspired.
Screening Confirms Law-Abiding Conduct
The evacuation process included joint screening and vetting by security agencies from Ghana and South Africa, at the request of South African authorities, to ensure no evacuees were wanted for criminal offenses. Minister Ablakwa proudly announced the outcome: “Not a single Ghanaian has been arrested. Not one. It confirms that Ghanaians are law-abiding and that you are not criminals as some people sought to portray you.” He commended the returnees for upholding Ghana’s reputation.
Ongoing Support and Future Outlook
The final batch of evacuees was expected to arrive on Sunday, bringing the total number of repatriated Ghanaians to nearly 1,000. The government pledged continued support, encompassing healthcare, psychosocial counseling, employment assistance, and efforts to secure compensation for lost properties and investments.
The Minister urged the returnees to maintain hope and optimism as they rebuild their lives, reiterating the nation’s commitment to their well-being. “We are honoured to have you back in our midst. You are valued, you are appreciated, and Ghana is proud of you,” he concluded.
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