Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has offered employment to Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, a Ghanaian who recently returned from South Africa after being caught up in xenophobic attacks.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quashie, disclosed this development while speaking on Joynews on Monday, May 10, 2026.
Mr Asamoah returned to Ghana on May 5, 2026, following his appearance in a viral video linked to the recent xenophobic incidents in South Africa.
According to the High Commissioner, the returnee has already begun the reintegration process. He said discussions were held with Mr Asamoah on how best to support him, leading to the job offer from Ibrahim Mahama.
“Fortunately, Mr Ibrahim Mahama has decided to offer him employment, which he has gladly accepted,” Mr Quashie stated.
The High Commissioner added that Ibrahim Mahama wants Mr Asamoah’s story to serve as inspiration to other Ghanaians facing difficulties abroad.
“Mr Ibrahim indicated to him that he wants him to be an ambassador so that other Ghanaians in other countries can look up to him and say, when they sacked him from one country, he got back to Ghana, and he was helped, and was able to make a meaning to his life,” he quoted the businessman as saying.
Mr Asamoah was previously working in a salon in South Africa. However, the High Commissioner noted that the returnee possesses additional skills that make him suitable for opportunities within Ibrahim Mahama’s businesses.
On the broader situation, Mr Quashie revealed that the Ghana High Commission is preparing for a voluntary repatriation exercise as more Ghanaians in South Africa express interest in returning home.
“After this evening, we have close to about 200 and something people who want to come back home,” he said.
He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has directed the mission to facilitate the return of those willing to come back, with the government covering the cost of travel certificates for those without passports.
Mr Quashie noted that approximately 20,000 Ghanaians currently reside in South Africa, many of whom have lost businesses and livelihoods due to repeated xenophobic attacks. He emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring no Ghanaian is left in danger abroad.