Ghana rejects MTN's GHS 20m donation for South Africa evacuation victims

The Government of Ghana has declined a GHS 20 million (approximately $1.8 million) donation offer from MTN Ghana intended to support citizens affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Mahama administration has already made adequate financial provisions for the evacuation and reintegration of affected Ghanaians.

The decision follows reports of the intended donation attributed to comments by MTN Ghana Board Chairman Dr. Ishmael Yamson. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa had previously communicated the government's position to MTN leadership during a meeting on August 14, 2026.

While the Ministry promised to publish a comprehensive account of total evacuation costs once the exercise concludes to ensure transparency, the lack of immediate cost disclosure has prompted action. Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, Member of Parliament for Bosome-Freho, has filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking a full breakdown of expenditures, including flights, accommodation, and reintegration support.

Some international relations experts suggest the rejection may be a diplomatic strategy to maintain pressure on the South African government to address the root causes of xenophobic attacks rather than accepting what is perceived as back-channel diplomacy.