Ghanaian Government Declines MTN Offer for Ghanaian Victims of South African Xenophobic Attacks

The Government of Ghana has steadfastly declined a GH¢20 million donation reportedly offered by MTN Ghana to support Ghanaian victims of recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, a decision communicated directly to MTN Board Chairman Dr. Ishmael Yamson on August 14, 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement released on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, acknowledged the media reports suggesting MTN’s intention to contribute to the support of affected individuals. The Ministry stated that the government had already established arrangements to finance the comprehensive evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians returning from South Africa, rendering acceptance of the donation impossible. The Ministry emphasized this decision is consistent with the pre-existing provision established by the John Mahama administration for ongoing evacuation and reintegration efforts, which it reaffirms is dedicated to all Ghanaian nationals returning from harm’s way. The Ministry further stressed its commitment to providing financial support for these evacuations, with the government assuring the public that detailed expenditure reports will be disseminated once the exercise concludes. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public that it would present a comprehensive account of the total cost associated with the evacuation process, emphasizing transparency and accountability, and reiterated its commitment to fostering a favorable business environment for international companies operating in Ghana. The government underscored its unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Ghanaians, highlighting it as its utmost priority. The decision follows heightened tensions and attacks stemming from xenophobic sentiments directed towards Ghanaians in South Africa, triggering the initial request for aid. The Ministry stated that the decision had already been communicated to MTN, reaffirming its dedication to supporting international brands, irrespective of their origin, and further emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens. The Ministry did not provide specific details regarding the total cost of the ongoing evacuation exercise, but indicated a comprehensive report would be released following completion.

“This decision is a direct result of the existing framework established by the Mahama Administration for the ongoing evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians from South Africa,” stated a Ministry spokesperson, speaking on the record. The statement further noted that the government remains fully committed to providing financial support for the evacuation and reintegration process, ensuring the safety and security of all Ghanaians.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures the public that it will present to the general public a comprehensive account of the total cost of evacuations as soon as the exercise is concluded, in the interest of transparency and accountability.”

“The government of Ghana remains fully committed to creating the best business ecosystem for all international brands operating in Ghana to succeed, irrespective of which country their businesses originated from.”

“The welfare of all Ghanaians remains our utmost priority.”

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures that it will continue to create the best business ecosystem for all international brands operating in Ghana to succeed, irrespective of which country their businesses originated from.”

“The Ministry said the decision comes amid ongoing efforts to evacuate and reintegrate Ghanaians affected by xenophobic attacks in South Africa.”

“The Ministry did not indicate in the statement the exact cost of the ongoing evacuation exercise but said a comprehensive account would be made public after its completion.”

“The government will continue to create the best business ecosystem for all international brands operating in Ghana to succeed, irrespective of which country their businesses originated from.”

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