Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has delivered a significant and heartfelt commendation to The Church of Pentecost for their considerable efforts in sheltering and providing humanitarian support to approximately 500 Ghanaians who fled the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Following a meeting with the Church’s Chairman, Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, Minister Ablakwa conveyed the government’s and the Ghanaian people’s profound appreciation for the church’s intervention during a particularly challenging period.
The Church of Pentecost established branches in Johannesburg, Pretoria West, and Kempton Park, providing temporary refuge for the affected individuals for approximately two months. These branches offered crucial assistance through the provision of food, clothing, and other essential necessities. Mr. Ablakwa emphasized the government’s gratitude to the church for its proactive response to the crisis, stating, ‘On behalf of His Excellency John Mahama, and the Foreign Ministry of Ghana, I conveyed our eternal gratitude to The Church of Pentecost.’
Furthermore, the Minister lauded the church’s consistent and unwavering commitment to humanitarian support to Ghanaians in distress abroad, highlighting their dedication to assisting those facing hardship, particularly during times of conflict like the Russian-Ukraine situation and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Church’s branches extend to 210 overseas territories, demonstrating the church’s global reach and commitment to supporting its members.
The government has confirmed that the evacuation process for Ghanaian nationals from South Africa is ongoing, with over 1,600 individuals already returned home safely. Minister Ablakwa underscored the importance of the church’s role as a beacon of compassion and a source of comfort for those seeking refuge. He stated, ‘I also commended the church for their inspiring consistency in providing humanitarian support to Ghanaians in distress abroad, particularly during the Russian-Ukraine conflict and during the COVID pandemic.’
The Ministry and the church have agreed to deepen collaborative efforts, with the church maintaining branches in 210 overseas territories. This collaborative approach underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Ghanaian citizens abroad. The church’s dedication to providing assistance to those in need remains a significant point of pride for Ghana, reflecting a longstanding tradition of Christian charity and support.
This situation highlights the crucial role of faith-based organizations in providing vital support to vulnerable communities, particularly in times of crisis. The government’s acknowledgment of the church’s assistance solidifies the importance of these partnerships in safeguarding the safety and security of Ghanaian citizens.
The meeting with the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost is viewed as a key moment in demonstrating the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens, emphasizing the church’s vital role within the Ghanaian community. The church’s unwavering dedication to offering support and comfort is a testament to the values of compassion and service, contributing significantly to the resilience of the Ghanaian people. The church’s presence in South Africa offers a tangible example of faith-based aid during a difficult time.
This incident underscores the significant impact of humanitarian aid, and the Church of Pentecost’s significant contribution to the well-being of the Ghanaian people. The government’s continued support for the church and its branches underscores a collaborative approach to ensuring the safety of Ghanaians abroad.
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Source: Adom Online
