GOV’T TURNS DOWN GH¢20M: Ghana Rejects MTN Offer for Victims of South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

By - Daniel David Quartey August 26, 2026 Comments (0) 2 Mins Read

The Government of Ghana has rejected a GH¢20 million support package proposed by MTN Ghana for citizens affected by the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, insisting that adequate arrangements have already been made to support victims and returnees.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the decision on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, after reports emerged that MTN Ghana intended to establish a GH¢20 million fund to help affected Ghanaians rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

According to the Ministry, while government appreciates MTN Ghana’s willingness to assist, it will not accept the offer because the Mahama administration has already provided funding for the evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians returning from South Africa.

The decision had reportedly been communicated to MTN Ghana Board Chairman Dr. Ishmael Yamson and the company’s Chief Executive Officer during a meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on August 14.

MTN Ghana initially planned to provide GH¢10 million in assistance but later doubled the proposed package to GH¢20 million, with the intention of creating a more sustainable fund to help returnees restart businesses and rebuild their livelihoods.

The government, however, maintains that it remains fully responsible for the ongoing humanitarian evacuation and reintegration programme.

Authorities have already introduced a support package for returning citizens, including a GH¢5,500 reintegration grant per evacuee, made up of GH¢5,000 in financial assistance and GH¢500 for transportation. Other support measures have included relief items and access to additional services.

Hundreds of Ghanaians have been evacuated from South Africa in recent months following attacks and intimidation targeting foreign nationals. As recently as August 17, another 87 citizens arrived in Ghana as part of the government’s evacuation programme.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry has also promised to publish a comprehensive account of the total cost of the evacuation and reintegration exercise once the programme is completed.

Despite declining MTN’s GH¢20 million offer, the government stressed that it remains committed to supporting international companies operating in Ghana while placing the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens at the centre of its response to the South Africa crisis.