Ibrahim Mahama Offers Job to Ghanaian Returnee from South Africa Xenophobia Crisis
Ibrahim Mahama steps in to support Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah as Ghana prepares to repatriate citizens affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa.
- Ibrahim Mahama has offered employment to Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah after his return from South Africa.
- More than 200 Ghanaians in South Africa have expressed interest in returning home amid rising fears.
- Ghana’s government says it will support repatriation efforts, including travel documentation and transportation costs.
Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama has extended a job offer to Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, the Ghanaian man who recently returned home after being caught up in xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
The development was confirmed by Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quashie.
Mr Asamoah arrived in Ghana on May 5 after a viral video linked him to the latest wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. According to Mr Quashie, efforts to help him settle back into life in Ghana began immediately after his return.
“Since his arrival, he has started the reintegration process. We discussed his future plans and the kind of support he would need,” the High Commissioner explained.
He revealed that Ibrahim Mahama stepped in during those discussions and offered Mr Asamoah employment, an opportunity the returnee willingly accepted.
Mr Quashie said the businessman hopes Mr Asamoah’s experience will serve as motivation for other Ghanaians facing hardship abroad.
According to him, Ibrahim Mahama wants the returnee to become a symbol of hope, demonstrating that people can rebuild their lives successfully after returning home from difficult situations overseas.
Although Mr Asamoah previously worked in a salon in South Africa, the High Commissioner noted that he possesses additional skills that could be useful in other fields.
“He shared other abilities he has, and Ibrahim Mahama believes there are several ways he can support and develop him,” Mr Quashie added.
Meanwhile, Ghanaian authorities are preparing for a broader voluntary repatriation exercise as concerns grow among Ghanaians living in South Africa.
Mr Quashie disclosed that more than 200 people have already expressed interest in returning to Ghana following the recent attacks.
He explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Ghanaian mission in South Africa to begin arrangements immediately, including securing travel certificates for those without passports.
“The ministry will cover the cost to ensure we bring them home safely,” he said.
The High Commissioner stressed that the government is determined not to leave any Ghanaian stranded in unsafe conditions.
“We do not want any Ghanaian left at the mercy of another nationality. Ghanaians are valued at home,” he stated.
He further noted that nearly 20,000 Ghanaians are currently living in South Africa, many of whom have suffered financial losses and disruption to their livelihoods because of recurring xenophobic violence.
According to him, many now see returning to Ghana as an opportunity to rebuild and start afresh.
