By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor)
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on the remaining Ghanaian nationals in Côte d’Ivoire, who fled recent communal violence, to consider returning home. The appeal was made during a 3-day working visit to the neighboring country, where the Minister met with affected communities.
According to Hon. Ablakwa, approximately 8,000 Ghanaians have already returned, and 5,309 still remain in Ivorian communities that offered refuge during the crisis.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, the Minister expressed deep appreciation to the government and people of Côte d’Ivoire for their “exceptional hospitality and compassion” shown to the displaced Ghanaians.
“The government continues to support our affected compatriots with relief items,” he said, adding that he also delivered a cash donation on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama as a symbol of solidarity and care. “Every Ghanaian everywhere is valuable to the Mahama Administration,” Ablakwa emphasized.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the crisis, the Minister highlighted the importance of regional unity in times of internal strife. He noted that Ghana had also extended support to Ivorians during past challenges, hosting over 17,000 Ivorian refugees during the 2010–2011 conflict.
“While we must do everything in our power to prevent conflicts, it is heartwarming to observe how our neighboring countries look out for each other when there are internal challenges,” he remarked.
Hon. Ablakwa concluded his message with a call for sustained peace across the region and stronger inter-country solidarity. “May we work to end communal clashes, and may our regional solidarity grow stronger,” he said.
The visit underscores the Mahama Administration’s commitment to the welfare of Ghanaians abroad, especially in times of crisis, and reinforces Ghana’s longstanding tradition of hospitality and diplomatic cooperation within West Africa.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
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✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
