Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quashie, has revealed that businessman Ibrahim Mahama has offered employment to Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, a Ghanaian who recently returned home following xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Mr Asamoah arrived in Ghana on May 5 after appearing in a viral video connected to the attacks.
Speaking on PM Express on Monday, Mr Quashie said the returnee had already begun the reintegration process and discussions had been held regarding how best to support him.
He disclosed that Ibrahim Mahama stepped in and offered Mr Asamoah a job, which he gladly accepted.
According to the High Commissioner, the businessman hopes Mr Asamoah’s story will inspire other Ghanaians facing difficulties abroad.
Mr Quashie explained that although Mr Asamoah had been working in a salon in South Africa, he possessed other skills that could be useful within Ibrahim Mahama’s businesses.
He also revealed that the government was preparing for a wider voluntary repatriation exercise as fears grow among Ghanaians living in South Africa.
According to him, more than 200 Ghanaians have already expressed interest in returning home.
Mr Quashie said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had directed the mission to begin arrangements, including issuing travel certificates for individuals without passports, with the government expected to cover the costs.
He stressed that the government’s priority was to ensure no Ghanaian was left stranded or vulnerable abroad.
The High Commissioner added that nearly 20,000 Ghanaians currently live in South Africa, many of whom have reportedly lost businesses and livelihoods due to repeated xenophobic attacks and now wish to return home to rebuild their lives.
Source: myjoyonline.com
