By Patrick Biddah
Government has announced plans to economically integrate more than 800 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa, following recent xenophobic attacks.
The initiative includes financial support and allowances to help the returnees establish businesses and rebuild livelihoods lost during the attacks.
The intervention has been described by government officials as a strong response to the violence, which was reportedly fueled by claims that foreign nationals were taking jobs meant for South Africans.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting citizens abroad and ensuring their successful reintegration into society.
Speaking at the Accra International Airport on Wednesday after the arrival of the first batch of 300 evacuees airlifted by Ethiopian Airlines, the Minister revealed that the group included 26 Ghanaian prisoners previously detained in South Africa for various visa violations.
He said the returnees would also receive psychological, therapeutic, and medical support as part of the reintegration process.
“Today, we send a clear message that Ghanaians have a caring government. Ghanaians are loved and cherished. If anyone mistreats Ghanaians anywhere in the world thinking no one cares about them, then they are mistaken,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.
Among the evacuees were children under the age of five, some of whom were born in South Africa.
Also present at the airport to welcome the returnees was the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who encouraged them to see their relocation as an opportunity for a fresh start in life.
He assured them of government’s comprehensive reintegration plans aimed at helping them settle comfortably and avoid feelings of rejection or despair.
Mr. Debrah noted that it was surprising that South Africans, who had historically benefited from Ghana’s social and economic contributions, could engage in such actions against Ghanaians.
“Nonetheless, we leave every judgment to God,” he added.
He further encouraged the evacuees to remain hopeful, stressing that success and destiny helpers could also be found in their home country.
The Chief of Staff also urged them to take advantage of the various social intervention programmes being introduced under the government’s Reset Agenda.
