The Government of Ghana has declined a proposed GH¢20 million donation from MTN Ghana to support Ghanaian victims of the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, saying it has already made adequate financial provisions for the evacuation and reintegration of citizens affected by the violence.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a press statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, following media reports that MTN Ghana was preparing to donate GH¢20 million to Ghanaian victims of the attacks.
According to the ministry, reports about the proposed donation were attributed to an interview granted by MTN Board Chairman, Dr. Ishmael Yamson.
While commending MTN for the gesture, the government said it had decided not to accept the offer.
“The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer, however, we respectfully decline,” the ministry stated.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry explained that the government, under the Mahama administration, had already made adequate arrangements to facilitate the evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians affected by the attacks.
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It disclosed that the position had previously been communicated directly to MTN’s Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer during their August 14, 2026 visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The government said it remains committed to providing humanitarian evacuation and reintegration financial support for every Ghanaian brought back from harm’s way.
The ministry added that it would provide the public with a comprehensive account of the total cost of the evacuation exercise once it is concluded.
According to the government, the disclosure is intended to promote transparency and accountability in its handling of the evacuation and reintegration programme.
Ghana Reaffirms Commitment to Businesses
The government also sought to reassure international companies operating in Ghana that its decision to decline MTN’s offer should not be interpreted as hostility towards private-sector support or foreign businesses.
It said it would continue creating a conducive business environment for international brands operating in Ghana, regardless of the country where their businesses originated.
“The welfare of all Ghanaians remains our utmost priority,” the ministry stated.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of Ghanaian nationals in South Africa following reports of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
While MTN’s proposed intervention was intended to support affected Ghanaians, the government’s decision means that the ongoing evacuation and reintegration programme will continue under existing government arrangements.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to release details of the total expenditure incurred on the exercise after its completion.