The government has welcomed about 340 Ghanaians back to Accra. These citizens were evacuated from South Africa due to recent xenophobic attacks. The arrival marks the second batch of returnees. The government assures them they are valued.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, met the returnees at the Accra International Airport. He emphasized their importance to Ghana. Many left behind businesses and homes. The Minister stated the government sees them as national assets. They deserve protection and support.
Mr. Ablakwa said they are not troublemakers or criminals. He assured them, "You are treasures, you are special, you are our kinsmen, and we value you." President John Dramani Mahama showed leadership. He ensured no Ghanaian was left in danger. This evacuation shows commitment to citizens abroad. It reaffirms that every citizen matters.
Many returnees lost property and businesses. These were built over years. However, they returned home safely. This is the most important outcome. Mr. Ablakwa stressed, "Once you have life, there is hope." Their safety outweighs material losses.
The Minister rejected the idea that Ghanaians abroad are less deserving. He mentioned their significant economic contribution. Remittances from the diaspora reached $7.8 billion last year. This is Ghana's second-largest foreign exchange earner. It trails only gold exports. These funds support many families and communities.
"Ghanaians in the diaspora are not selfish. They send remittances home and take care of their families," Mr. Ablakwa stated. "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." He praised their hard work. Their sacrifices benefit families and the nation.
The government will support their reintegration. Efforts are underway for employment opportunities. Local businesses and entrepreneurs offered help. Approximately 200 job opportunities are secured. Engineers and Planners Limited offered 100 jobs. Telecom companies and other private firms also responded positively.
Mr. Ablakwa encouraged returnees to stay hopeful. They should use their entrepreneurial spirit in Ghana. He urged them to believe in making it in Ghana. "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 told them.
The returnees were praised for their conduct. Security agencies from Ghana and South Africa screened them. This verified if any Ghanaians were wanted for crimes. The outcome made Ghana proud. "Not a single Ghanaian has been arrested. Not one," the Minister confirmed. "It confirms that Ghanaians are law-abiding."
The final batch of evacuees is expected soon. Nearly 1,000 Ghanaians have been evacuated. The government will provide healthcare and counselling. Employment assistance is also planned. Efforts to secure compensation for lost properties will continue. Mr. Ablakwa assured them of ongoing support. "We are honoured to have you back in our midst. You are valued, you are appreciated, and Ghana is proud of you."