By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that the country is preparing to receive 40 deportees from the United States in the coming days.
The returnees, according to the minister, comprise both Ghanaians and nationals from other West African countries. He explained that the process is being coordinated in line with international protocols and Ghana’s immigration laws to ensure due diligence and the protection of human rights.
“Preparations are well underway to receive the group. Even though the exact date of arrival and the designated entry point are yet to be disclosed for security reasons, the necessary agencies are on alert to handle the process smoothly,” Ablakwa noted.
The Minister assured the public that adequate arrangements have been made with the Ghana Immigration Service, security agencies, and relevant humanitarian bodies to provide screening, verification, and reintegration support where necessary.
This development comes at a time when deportations from the US to Africa have been on the rise, often linked to immigration violations, expired documents, or other legal issues. Ghana has in recent years received several batches of deportees, many of whom have had to undergo intensive screening before being reintegrated.
Observers say the move highlights ongoing challenges with migration management between the US and African states, while also raising questions about reintegration support for deportees, many of whom face stigma and difficulties resettling upon their return.
Government sources, however, maintain that Ghana remains committed to upholding its international obligations while ensuring the dignity and safety of its citizens and other West African nationals affected by deportations.
