In a heartfelt move to ensure the dignified return and successful reintegration of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa, the government has unveiled a comprehensive support package for each returnee.
At a press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa shared details of the government’s commitment to its citizens.
According to Minister Ablakwa, every Ghanaian evacuated will receive a total of GH¢5,500. This sum is made up of a GH¢5,000 reintegration grant and a GH¢500 travel and transport allowance. In addition, the returnees will be provided with relief items from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and enrolled for free under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
The minister explained that the evacuation, which is being carried out in two phases, will cover nearly 2,000 Ghanaians, 926 in the first phase and an estimated 1,000 in the second. He emphasised that the government would present a full account of the evacuation exercise upon its completion. Corporate bodies and philanthropic individuals, including businessman Ibrahim Mahama, have also contributed generously to the initiative.
But the government’s efforts do not end with the return flights. Minister Ablakwa described a range of reintegration programmes being rolled out to support the returnees. These initiatives include job placements, skills training, entrepreneurship support, and the creation of a special national database to connect returnees with employment and start-up opportunities. Already, about 200 jobs have been secured through partnerships with the private sector. Notably, Engineers and Planners Limited has committed 100 positions, while Telecel Ghana, AirtelTigo, and other companies have also opened their doors to the returnees.
“Government believes strongly that no Ghanaian returning home under distressing circumstances should feel abandoned or excluded from national support systems,” the minister stated. To safeguard the well-being of returnees, social workers will conduct follow-up visits for six months, providing mental health support, and a dedicated helpline has been established. Additionally, a public awareness campaign will be launched to combat any stigmatisation faced by returnees.
Minister Ablakwa further revealed that the government is compiling a register of claims to pursue legal and diplomatic action for compensation for those who lost businesses and property during the xenophobic attacks.
On the diplomatic front, Ghana has petitioned the African Union (AU) to urgently address the recurring xenophobic attacks against Ghanaians and other African nationals. Although the Eighth AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting was postponed, Ghana has maintained its petition and secured ECOWAS Heads of State endorsement to raise the issue at the next AU meeting. The minister stressed that the petition is not meant to single out South Africa, but rather to encourage a united continental response to protect the rights and dignity of all African citizens.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com