The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Vivian Asante has called for an end to the mistreatment of Ghanaians in South Africa, urging the host nation to adopt the same spirit of peaceful coexistence that South African businesses enjoy in Ghana.
Speaking on the recent tensions involving African migrants, Ms. Asante highlighted the significant presence of South African interests in the Ghanaian economy, specifically pointing to the telecommunications giant, MTN.
”Don’t forget MTN is a leading telecommunication company here in Ghana, and it’s a South African company. We have a lot of them, but they are here peacefully working, so they should allow our people to work,” she said.
Addressing the grievances of locals who claim migrants are competing for “scarce resources,” Ms. Asante advised that such concerns should be directed to leadership rather than individual foreigners.
She emphasized that if issues of overstaying or legal status exist, they must be handled through established legal channels.
”If they think they [Ghanaians] have overstayed, there is a due process,” she stated, adding that “mob attacks” are an inappropriate response to economic or social competition.
The MASLOC Deputy CEO further appealed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intensify efforts in ensuring the safety of Ghanaians living in South Africa.
Expressing confidence in the current administration, she noted that the welfare of citizens abroad remains a top priority.
”I know President John Dramani Mahama will take good measures and ensure that our people are safe out there,” she said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the well-being of all Ghanaians.
Ms. Asante further extended a warm welcome to Ghanaians considering leaving South Africa due to the current climate.
She described a rejuvenated Ghana under the NDC government, using the phrase “bibiaa ye foforo” (everything is new) to characterize the current national atmosphere.
”Ghana is new, everyone is happy…so they should come back. We will receive them, and I can assure them that they can have something to do,” she assured.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
