Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quashie
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quashie, has announced that the government is taking steps to repatriate Ghanaians escaping renewed xenophobic violence, assuring that no citizen will be left behind.
In an interview on PM Express yesterday, Mr. Quashie revealed that nearly 200 Ghanaians have shown interest in returning home voluntarily amidst the ongoing unrest.
His remarks follow the recent return of Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, a Ghanaian national featured in a viral video related to the attacks.
The High Commissioner noted that businessman Ibrahim Mahama has offered Mr. Asamoah employment, stating, “Fortunately, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama has decided to offer him a job, which he has gladly accepted.”
He emphasized that Mahama aims for Asamoah’s experience to serve as an inspiration for other Ghanaians facing challenges abroad.
“Mr. Ibrahim indicated to him that he wants him to be an ambassador so that other Ghanaians in different countries can look up to him and say, when they were expelled from one country, he returned to Ghana, received help, and was able to turn his life around,” Quashie explained.
When asked about Asamoah’s previous work in South Africa, the envoy mentioned that he had been employed at a salon, adding that discussions are ongoing regarding additional job prospects for him in Ghana.
Mr. Quashie disclosed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the mission in South Africa to compile a list of Ghanaians seeking repatriation.
“We have been tasked by the Minister to collect the names of those wishing to return. As of this evening, we have nearly 200 individuals who want to come back home,” he said.
He assured that the government will cover the costs associated with travel documentation and transportation for those without passports.
“We will arrange travel certificates for them. The ministry will handle these expenses to ensure their safe return,” Quashie emphasized, reiterating the government’s commitment to its citizens’ safety.
“The primary goal is not to leave any Ghanaian vulnerable to the whims of others. Ghanaians are valued in Ghana,” he stated.
“If we need to facilitate their return and assist with reintegration for a better future, we will do so.”
Quashie cautioned that the number of returnees may increase significantly, as many Ghanaians in South Africa have lost their businesses and livelihoods due to ongoing xenophobic incidents.
“There are numerous Ghanaians in South Africa, some are thriving, working in mines, hospitals, or as lecturers,” he noted.
“However, many have faced adversity, investing in businesses only to lose everything during xenophobic attacks.”
He added that conversations are ongoing with local businesses in Ghana to support reintegration and create job opportunities for those returning home.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong