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 pledged to assist returnees as they rebuild their lives in Ghana.
“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,” Mr. Ablakwa said.
He disclosed that engineering firm Engineers & Planners, led by Ibrahim Mahama, has committed to employing 100 returning Ghanaians. Telecommunications companies, including AirtelTigo and Telecel, as well as other corporate institutions, have also pledged to recruit some of the returnees.
“We will continue discussions with the private sector to expand employment opportunities for returning Ghanaian nationals,” he added.
Beyond employment, the minister said the government has introduced additional measures to facilitate the long-term reintegration of the evacuees. These include regular follow-up visits by social workers during the first six months after their return and the establishment of a dedicated helpline to provide mental health support for those affected by psychological trauma.
The reintegration programme forms part of the government’s broader response to the renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have forced hundreds of Ghanaians to seek voluntary evacuation.
Officials say the initiative is designed to ensure that returnees receive the support needed to successfully reintegrate into society, regain their livelihoods and rebuild their futures.
To date, the government has evacuated more than 900 Ghanaians from South Africa, with an additional 1,000 nationals expected to return under the second phase of the ongoing voluntary evacuation exercise.
Source: citinews
