The government has officially welcomed the third and final batch of 342 Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa, bringing the total number of repatriated citizens to nearly one thousand following recent waves of xenophobic unrest.
The reception, held on behalf of Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was led by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister James Gyakye Quayson and Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe, who both assured the returnees of the state’s absolute commitment to their resettlement and healing.
Addressing the gathering, James Gyakye Quayson urged the returnees to view the unfortunate events not as a definitive tragedy, but as a turning point. Reflecting on the complex socio-economic frustrations and political exploitation driving the unrest in South Africa, he emphasized that the violence does not reflect the true spirit of Pan-Africanism or the legacy of Nelson Mandela, a history Ghana actively supported.
”Everything happens for a reason in life. It’s about how you process it,” Quayson stated, encouraging the compatriots to find the strength to forgive. “We also have to learn to forgive our enemies. It’s very, very important. It’s part of your healing.”
Quayson reminded the returnees that many of them had spent decades peacefully coexisting within South African communities before these man-made crises erupted. He noted that the homeland they are returning to has transformed significantly, offering immense potential for those ready to rebuild.
”This is not the Ghana you knew maybe five, ten years ago. This is Ghana today. Everything is changing,” he remarked, underscoring that the diaspora remains a vital cornerstone of the nation’s economic strength.
Assuring them of the state’s protective reach, he added, “Even if it’s on your deathbed, we’ll bring you home.” He challenged the returnees to channel their resilience into their local communities, showcasing the skills and determination they gathered abroad to uplift their families.
Reinforcing this message of solidarity, Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe delivered a warm welcome on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing that the state is fully prepared to walk beside every individual during their transition.
”On behalf of his Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we all stand here to say Akwaaba. You have all come home, our brothers and sisters, you are very welcome,” Bampoe declared. “Be assured that the government of Ghana welcomes you with open arms. We are here to serve you and walk with you throughout your resettlement.”
To ensure a smooth integration into Ghanaian society, Bampoe announced a comprehensive suite of social intervention packages. All returnees have been registered on a centralized database to facilitate immediate state support. Under the National Youth Authority, led by Usman Ayariga, individuals seeking employment will be enrolled in the National Apprenticeship Program.
Furthermore, through the representation of Victor Bampoe, all returnees will receive free registration under the National Health Insurance Authority, alongside expedited support from the National Identification Authority to secure their Ghana Cards.
”Be assured that all the hope, don’t be worried, do not fear, you are home and we are here to make you comfortable,” Bampoe reassured the gathering.
A representative speaking on behalf of the evacuated citizens expressed profound gratitude to the government and Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quarshie, for their unwavering care.
The representative lauded the current administration as the only government to provide direct, life-saving intervention during such crises.
He revealed that despite many of them living in South Africa for 20 to 30 years and surviving previous waves of xenophobic attacks, past diplomatic administrations had dismissed their pleas, historical commissioners claiming they bore no responsibility for citizens who traveled abroad independently.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei.
