Accra: The Government has assured Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks that they remain valued citizens whose contributions to national development are deeply appreciated. Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, gave the assurance on Saturday night when he welcomed the second batch of about 340 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa at the Accra International Airport.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Ablakwa addressed the returnees, many of whom were forced to abandon businesses, homes, and investments due to the attacks. He emphasized that the Government viewed them not as victims or burdens, but as valuable national assets deserving of protection and support. Mr Ablakwa reassured them that they are treasures to the nation, cherished for their contributions and valued as part of the Ghanaian family.
The Minister highlighted President John Dramani Mahama's leadership and compassion in ensuring that no Ghanaian citizen was left stranded or exposed to danger. He stated that the evacuation exercise reflected the Government's commitment to protecting Ghanaians wherever they resided and reaffirmed the principle that every citizen mattered. Despite the loss of businesses and properties, the safe return of the evacuees was prioritized, underlining the importance of life and hope for the future.
Mr Ablakwa dismissed suggestions that Ghanaians living abroad were less deserving of government attention, emphasizing their significant economic contributions through remittances, which reached a record US$7.8 billion last year. These contributions, he noted, have supported countless families and communities, underscoring the importance of standing by the diaspora in times of distress.
He assured the returnees that the Government would support their reintegration, with efforts underway to facilitate employment opportunities for those willing to work upon their return. Approximately 200 job opportunities had already been secured through a government initiative with local businesses and entrepreneurs, including significant offers from companies like Engineers and Planners Limited.
The Minister encouraged the returnees to maintain their confidence in Ghana and to channel their entrepreneurial spirit into opportunities available within the country. He praised their conduct throughout the repatriation process, noting that joint screenings by security agencies from both countries confirmed that no Ghanaian nationals were wanted for criminal offences, reinforcing their reputation as law-abiding citizens.
Mr Ablakwa announced that the final batch of evacuees was expected to arrive on Sunday, bringing the total number of Ghanaians evacuated to nearly 1,000. He assured continued government support through healthcare, psychosocial counselling, employment assistance, and efforts to secure compensation for lost properties and investments, urging the returnees to remain hopeful and optimistic as they rebuild their lives in Ghana.