Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on June 6, 2026, challenged 345 Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa to invest their skills and capital in the Ghanaian economy.
The Minister stressed that Ghana is a lucrative destination for foreign investors. He pointed out that over 10,000 South Africans have visited or settled in Ghana. This influx highlights Ghana's economic potential, contrary to any perception of the nation being “second-rated”. These remarks were made at the Accra International Airport during the welcoming of the second batch of evacuees.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to attract investment and foster local entrepreneurship. The government aims to create a favourable business environment. Data consistently shows Ghana as a stable and growing economy within West Africa. This stability attracts both foreign direct investment and skilled individuals seeking opportunities.
“Official data shows more than 10,000 South Africans have already visited Ghana. So, don't allow anybody to make you think that your country is some second-rated country,” Minister Ablakwa stated during his address. He also noted global investors and regional peers view Ghana as a safe haven for long-term commercial expansion.
The government's call intends to integrate these returnees into the local workforce and stimulate economic activity. Decision-makers will closely monitor the success of reintegration programs and their impact on various sectors. The entrepreneurial spirit of these individuals could boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This might create new jobs and diversified income streams. The government is also preparing for future flights to repatriate more citizens.
The evacuation exercise began after xenophobic attacks targeted foreign nationals in South Africa. Many returnees lost their businesses and belongings. Minister Ablakwa assured them of the Ghanaian economy's resilience. He urged them to apply the same entrepreneurial drive they showed abroad at home. He questioned, “So if others, including where you are coming from, come to Ghana and invest in Ghana, why can't you also believe in Ghana and invest in Ghana?”
Officials from the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection provided psycho-social counselling. They also offered initial transport allowances to aid the returnees. A third emergency flight is also scheduled to arrive. This demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting its citizens. This robust reintegration effort aims to leverage human capital for national development.