Ghana Turns Down MTN's Support for Victims of Xenophobic Attacks

Ghana has turned down a donation offer of GH¢20 million (N2.4 billion) from MTN. This money was meant to help Ghanaians affected by the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made this known in a statement on Wednesday.

They said the government already set aside enough money for the evacuation and reintegration of Ghanaians caught up in the recent xenophobic violence in South Africa.

So far, Ghana has brought back over 1,500 citizens from South Africa since the attacks started in April.

Authorities evacuated the first group of 300 Ghanaians in May. Then, another 1,000 were brought back in June. Last month, officials announced that another 900 Ghanaians would be repatriated.

According to Ghanaian officials, they have arranged the necessary care and support for these citizens.

“The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer; however, we respectfully decline,” the statement read.

They added that Ghana’s position was communicated directly to the Board Chair and CEO of MTN during their meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on August 14, 2026.

“Meanwhile, the Government of Ghana remains fully committed to current humanitarian evacuations and reintegration financial support for every Ghanaian brought back from harm’s way,” the statement continued.

PREMIUM TIMES notes that MTN, which is owned by South Africa, is the largest mobile network in Africa. The company has a strong presence in many African nations, including Ghana and Nigeria.

In their statement, the Ghanaian ministry also said it plans to share “a comprehensive account of the total cost of evacuations” with the public once the operation ends.

“The government will continue to create the best business environment for all international brands operating in Ghana to succeed, no matter where their businesses come from,” the statement added.

The increase in xenophobic violence in Pretoria has led to diplomatic tensions between South Africa and several African countries, including Ghana and Nigeria. Many of these countries are also bringing their citizens home.