Chief Executive Officer of Engineers & Planners and philanthropist, Ibrahim Mahama, has stepped in to support the ongoing evacuation of Ghanaians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
His intervention follows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ announcement of the second phase of a voluntary evacuation exercise aimed at bringing home about 1,000 Ghanaians who had registered to return due to growing concerns over attacks against African migrants in South Africa.
The Government of Ghana had already facilitated the return of 926 citizens through three separate chartered flights. However, with the exercise placing additional pressure on public finances, Ibrahim Mahama offered to cover the cost of air tickets for the latest group of evacuees.
As part of efforts to support their resettlement, each returnee received a GH¢5,000 reintegration package and GH¢500 transportation assistance from the government and other stakeholders.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa commended Ibrahim Mahama for his timely intervention, describing the support as a significant contribution to the evacuation process.
He also acknowledged the efforts of other partners, including AirtelTigo for providing free data and airtime through complimentary SIM cards, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) for relief supplies, the Ghana Red Cross Society, and the Ministry of Health for their roles in ensuring the safe return and reintegration of the evacuees.
Mr Ablakwa further disclosed that the Ministry would soon establish a consular fund through a public-private partnership arrangement to help address the increasing financial demands associated with consular services.
He appealed to private sector organisations to assist the returnees by providing employment opportunities and other forms of support to help them rebuild their lives after returning home.
The evacuation exercise comes amid a wave of violence targeting foreign nationals in South Africa, with thousands of African migrants being assisted by their respective governments to leave the country. The attacks have triggered international concern and condemnation over reported human rights violations.
Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to discuss the matter at the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting. Additionally, two private individuals are reported to have initiated legal action against South Africa at the International Criminal Court, seeking accountability for the attacks.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s President has expressed regret over the deaths of foreign nationals during the unrest but insisted that his government does not support or condone the actions of groups involved in the violence.
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