The Government of Ghana has declined a GH¢20 million donation offered by MTN Ghana to support Ghanaian victims of recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, said it had become aware of media reports indicating that MTN Ghana was preparing to make the donation.
According to the Ministry, the reported offer was 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 donation because the Mahama administration had made adequate financial provision for the ongoing evacuation and reintegration of affected Ghanaians.
The Ministry said the government’s position had already been communicated to Dr Yamson and the MTN Chief Executive Officer when they paid a courtesy call on Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on August 14, 2026.
“The Government of Ghana commends MTN for the offer, however, we respectfully decline,” the statement said.
The Ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to funding the evacuation and providing reintegration financial support to Ghanaians brought back from harm’s way.
It also assured the public that it would publish a comprehensive account of the total cost of the evacuation exercise after its conclusion, as part of efforts to promote transparency and accountability.
The government further reiterated its commitment to creating a conducive business environment for international companies operating in Ghana, regardless of their country of origin.
“The welfare of all Ghanaians remains our utmost priority,” the Ministry said.