The Ghanaian government has turned down a proposed GH¢20m (approximately ₦2.4 billion) aid package offered by telecommunications giant MTN Ghana to assist citizens affected by recent xenophobic violence in South Africa.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed media reports that the company intended to provide financial relief for returnees, but stated that the Mahama administration would not accept the funds.
“The media publications seem to attribute the announcement of this intended GHS20million donation to an interview granted by the highly regarded MTN Board Chairman, Dr. Ishmael Yamson,” the ministry noted, adding, “The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer, however, we respectfully decline.”
The ministry explained that state funds are already sufficient to handle the ongoing repatriation process, stressing that the administration “remains fully committed to current humanitarian evacuations and reintegration financial support for every Ghanaian brought back from harm’s way.” State officials added that their decision had been communicated directly to Dr Yamson and the MTN Chief Executive during an August 14 meeting.
The rejection comes amid a wave of renewed xenophobic hostility targeting African migrants, including Ghanaian nationals, in South Africa. Reports by local media, including MyJoyOnline, had previously quoted Dr Yamson as stating that MTN Ghana initially set aside GH¢10m to welcome returnees, before doubling the figure to set up a long-term reintegration fund. Dr Yamson also acknowledged that the firm ought to have consulted government officials earlier in the process.
The foreign ministry stated that “it will present to the general public a comprehensive account of the total cost of evacuations as soon as the exercise is concluded.”
MTN Ghana has yet to issue an official statement regarding the government’s decision. A similar initiative was previously undertaken by MTN in Nigeria, where the firm provided returning citizens with free data SIM packs and promised direct cash transfers of ₦100,000 following xenophobic unrest in South Africa.