The government has secured approximately 200 employment opportunities for Ghanaians returning from South Africa as part of efforts to support their reintegration following renewed xenophobic attacks in the country.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the initiative during a press briefing on Monday, July 27, describing it as a key component of the government’s reintegration programme for evacuees.
According to the minister, the employment opportunities have been secured through partnerships with Ghanaian-owned businesses and private sector organisations that have committed to helping returnees rebuild their lives.
“As part of the reintegration initiative, approximately 200 employment opportunities have so far been secured through partnerships with patriotic Ghanaian businesses and private sector organisations,” Ablakwa said.
He disclosed that engineering firm Engineers & Planners, led by Ibrahim Mahama, has committed to employing 100 returning Ghanaians, while telecommunications companies including AirtelTigo, Telecel and other corporate institutions have also pledged to absorb some of the evacuees.
“We will continue discussions with the private sector to expand employment opportunities for returning Ghanaian nationals,” he added.
Beyond employment support, the minister said the government has introduced measures to facilitate the long-term reintegration of the returnees. He noted that social workers will conduct regular follow-up visits for the first six months after their return, while a dedicated helpline has been established to provide mental health support to those experiencing psychological trauma.
The reintegration programme forms part of the government’s response to the renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have forced hundreds of Ghanaians to seek voluntary evacuation.
Authorities say the initiative is intended to ensure that returnees receive the support needed to successfully reintegrate into society and regain their livelihoods.
However, Ghana has so far evacuated more than 900 nationals from South Africa, while an additional 1,000 are expected to return as part of the second phase of the ongoing evacuation exercise.
