The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that the government secured employment opportunities for Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa. He stated that the initiative is aimed at supporting reintegration and restoring livelihoods of affected citizens.
Honourable Okudzeto explained that the intervention is a coordinated national response involving both state institutions and corporate entities. The Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that the collaboration is designed to ensure returnees are not left without support after their evacuation.
He disclosed that businessman Ibrahim Mahama has led private sector support through Engineers and Planners. Honourable Okudzeto indicated that the company has offered 100 jobs to assist affected returnees in rebuilding their lives.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs also revealed that telecommunications companies: AirtelTigo and Telecel have also joined the initiative. He said the firms have indicated readiness to provide employment opportunities under the reintegration programme.
Additionally, Honourable Okudzeto stated that several chief executive officers have expressed interest in participating. He explained that discussions are ongoing to expand job placements across multiple sectors of the economy.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs praised the Association of Ghana Industries and participating entrepreneurs for their support. He described their involvement as a demonstration of national compassion and responsibility toward affected citizens.
“They are not going to sit back and just watch you having lost everything, lost your businesses, lost your investments and lost your assets. They are going to partner with government to make sure you are fully integrated.”
Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Honourable Okudzeto added that the government has also secured an additional 200 jobs to complement private sector contributions. He said the combined effort is expected to provide a stable foundation for economic recovery among returnees.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs assured evacuees that government is committed to their welfare. He indicated that support systems are being strengthened to ensure successful reintegration into society.
Honourable Okudzeto encouraged the returnees to remain resilient despite their experiences abroad. He said the initiative represents an opportunity for renewal and economic transformation.
He referenced the biblical message in Joel Chapter 2 Verse 25 as a source of encouragement. Honourable Okudzeto stated that restoration is possible through collective effort and determination.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs further expressed confidence that many returnees would rebuild stronger livelihoods in Ghana. He added that government will continue working with stakeholders to expand opportunities.
Ghana Appeals For Patriotic Confidence Among Returnees
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa advised Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa to invest confidence in the country and take advantage of emerging opportunities at home. He stated that Ghana continues to attract growing international interest despite negative perceptions abroad.
Honourable Okudzeto disclosed that thousands of South Africans continue to travel to Ghana annually. The Minister of Foreign Affairs said the trend shows increasing global confidence in Ghana’s economic and investment environment.
He revealed that more than 11,000 South Africans visited Ghana last year. Honourable Okudzeto added that over 10,000 South Africans have entered the country between January and June 5th this year.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasised that these figures demonstrate Ghana’s position as a preferred destination for business and tourism. He noted that foreign investors and visitors continue to explore opportunities within the country.
“Believe you can make it in Ghana and you will make it in Ghana. A lot of people are coming here, investing here and establishing businesses here.”
Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Honourable Okudzeto encouraged returnees to adopt a positive mindset as they reintegrate into Ghana’s economy. He said success depends on belief, commitment and the willingness to take calculated risks.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that many Ghanaians demonstrate strong entrepreneurial skills while abroad. He explained that such qualities should be applied within the local economy to generate sustainable growth.
Honourable Okudzeto indicated that confidence plays a key role in economic transformation. He said individuals who believe in their environment are more likely to identify and pursue viable opportunities.
“The way you work hard and the risks you take as entrepreneurs abroad, bring those qualities here and the returns will be far more rewarding.”
Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that returnees possess valuable experience from their time abroad. He added that these skills can be channelled into productive ventures within Ghana and help grow the nature.
READ ALSO: 345 More Ghanaians Return Home As South Africa Evacuation Continues
