The Government of Ghana has declined a GHS20 million ($1.8 million) donation from MTN Ghana to support citizens affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday that the government had already made adequate financial provisions for the evacuation and reintegration of affected Ghanaians, making the proposed corporate donation unnecessary.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa explained that the decision was not intended to undermine MTN Ghana’s gesture but was based on the government’s existing arrangements for managing the humanitarian response.
The ministry said media reports about the donation followed remarks by MTN Ghana Board Chairman Dr Ishmael Yamson regarding the company’s planned contribution.
According to the ministry, the government had communicated its decision to Yamson and MTN Ghana’s Chief Executive Officer during a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Minister on August 14.
Ghana has been facilitating the evacuation of citizens affected by the violence in South Africa and providing financial assistance to support their reintegration after returning home.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry said it would publish a comprehensive account of the total cost of the evacuation exercise once the process is completed. The move is intended to promote transparency and accountability in the government’s handling of the crisis.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a favourable business environment for international companies operating in Ghana, regardless of their countries of origin.
The rejection of MTN Ghana’s proposed contribution comes amid continuing concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa. The violence has heightened fears over the safety of African migrants and businesses operating across the continent.
MTN Ghana’s proposed GHS20 million intervention would have represented a significant corporate response to the crisis. However, the government has opted to rely on its own financial resources and existing arrangements with local partners to support affected citizens.