The Government of Ghana has declined a GH¢20 million offer from MTN Ghana to support Ghanaians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had become aware of media reports suggesting that MTN Ghana was preparing to make the donation.
The Ministry said the reports attributed the intended offer to comments made by MTN Board Chairman, Dr Ishmael Yamson, in an interview.
While commending MTN for the gesture, government said it had decided not to accept the offer because the Mahama administration had already made adequate financial provisions for the ongoing evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians returning from South Africa.
“The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer, however, we respectfully decline,” the Ministry stated.
According to the Ministry, the government’s position had already been communicated directly to Dr Yamson and the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana when they called on the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on August 14, 2026. (Adomonline.com)
The government has continued to fund the evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians affected by the attacks. The Information Services Department recently reported that 87 more Ghanaian nationals arrived in Accra as part of the second phase of the evacuation exercise.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry also assured the public that it would provide a comprehensive account of the total cost of the evacuation exercise once it is concluded, as part of its commitment to transparency and accountability.
Government further reaffirmed its commitment to creating a favourable business environment for all international brands operating in Ghana, regardless of their country of origin.
“The welfare of all Ghanaians remains our utmost priority,” the Ministry said.
By: Bernard Mensah
Discussion about this post