Ghana Declines MTN’s 20m Ghana Cedis Aid for South Africa Xenophobia Victims
Ghana has turned down a proposed GH¢20 million donation from MTN Ghana to assist citizens affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, saying the government has already allocated funds for their evacuation and reintegration.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government’s decision was based on existing financial arrangements covering the return and resettlement of Ghanaians affected by the violence. It acknowledged MTN Ghana’s gesture but maintained that accepting the funds was unnecessary under the current response framework.
The government said it had previously communicated its position to MTN Ghana’s leadership during a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on August 14. It also assured that financial support would continue for Ghanaians being brought home from areas affected by the attacks.
The ministry added that it would publish a detailed account of the funds spent on the evacuation exercise after its completion, in line with its commitment to transparency. It also said the rejection of the donation would not affect the government’s relationship with international companies operating in Ghana, stressing that the welfare of affected citizens remains the priority.
