Government Efforts Underway to Reintegrate Ghanaians Facing Deportation from the US, Says Ablakwa
Ghana Assures Support for Deported Citizens from US
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the Ghanaian public that it is actively engaged in facilitating the safe return, reintegration, and family reunification of Ghanaian nationals facing deportation from the United States of America.
Following a period of intensified immigration enforcement during the Trump administration, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has conducted numerous arrests of undocumented immigrants across the United States since President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20th. Deportation flights have also resumed, with some deportees being transported using U.S. military aircraft.
According to data from the Pew Research Center, the United States, with a population of approximately 341 million, is home to an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants. Ghana is among the nations affected by these deportation efforts, with approximately 160 Ghanaian nationals currently facing imminent deportation.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra ahead of the ECOWAS at 50 launch, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed that comprehensive measures are being taken to ensure the safe and dignified return of the affected individuals.
He noted that there have been no significant updates since the last report from Ghana’s embassy in Washington but reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to providing support to the returnees and assisting them in their reintegration into Ghanaian society.
“The number, as reported by our foreign service officials, is that approximately 160 Ghanaians are currently on the deportation list, and the deportation process is ongoing. Out of humanitarian concerns and respect for human rights, we have chosen not to disclose specific details about these individuals publicly,” Minister Ablakwa stated.
“Upon their arrival, our team will welcome them and provide assistance with their reintegration, including connecting them with their families. We are also collaborating with various partners discreetly, as it is crucial that we uphold the dignity of our fellow Ghanaians and avoid exposing them to unnecessary media attention,” he added.
The government’s focus on a dignified and confidential reintegration process is seen as crucial for these returning citizens. This is a matter of concern for many Ghanaians, including those in Kumasi.
