The Government of Ghana has begun the repatriation of 327 Ghanaian nationals left stranded in Côte d’Ivoire following a demolition exercise by authorities in the Port Bouët Municipality of Abidjan.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, June 12, the affected Ghanaians lost their homes and sources of livelihood after the demolition operation, leaving many without shelter or the means to support themselves.
The Ministry announced that 228 of the affected nationals have already been successfully returned to Ghana, arriving on Thursday, June 11, while arrangements have been finalized for the remaining 99 individuals to return on Friday, June 12.
The repatriation effort forms part of the government’s emergency response to support citizens impacted by the exercise and facilitate their safe return and reintegration.
The Ministry explained that all 327 Ghanaians were residing in communities affected by the demolition and became stranded after losing their livelihoods and being unable to secure alternative accommodation in Côte d’Ivoire.
Beyond the evacuation, the government is also pursuing compensation for the affected nationals.
According to the Ministry, Ivorian authorities have indicated their willingness to compensate victims of the demolition exercise, and Ghana will continue to engage with them to ensure the commitment is honoured.
“The Ministry further wishes to acknowledge that Ivorian authorities have expressed their desire to compensate the victims of their demolition exercise and shall therefore remain actively engaged on the matter to ensure that the promised compensation is received by our affected nationals,” the statement said.
The Ministry added that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan will continue coordinating efforts with relevant stakeholders to facilitate the compensation process and address any outstanding welfare concerns of the affected citizens.
