By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, March 29, GNA – The European Union (EU) has allocated €2.9 million to the ATUU Project, an initiative aimed at improving migration governance and fostering the integration of migrants in Ghana.
Implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the three-year project will focus on creating sustainable systems to support vulnerable migrants and returnees, ensuring their smooth reintegration into society.
Mr Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, Minister of the Interior and National Security, in a speech read on his behalf, highlighted Ghana’s dedication to bolstering migration governance and harnessing its developmental potential.
He noted that Ghana already has a national implementation plan focused on key areas such as improved border management, streamlined return and reintegration processes, and intensified efforts against human trafficking.
Thus, the current project will further support and complement the government’s efforts in managing planned and safe migration.
He also emphasised the significant economic contribution of the Ghanaian diaspora, which remitted about $4.6 billion in 2023, representing almost 6.1 per cent of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP).
The launch of the project was attended by representatives of the Ministry of the INTERIOR and its agencies, including the National Disaster Management Organisation(NADMO) the Ghana Immigration Service, and civil society groups.
The ATUU project builds on previous EU-supported migration initiatives and emphasises a collaborative approach to address migration challenges.
Miss Anna Lixi, Head of Governance and Security at the EU Delegation, highlighted key components of the ATUU project.
“Key components include the establishment of a National Referral Mechanism to provide returnees with training and community-based projects, as well as enhanced protection for vulnerable migrants at borders and local levels,” she said.
She noted that by strengthening the governance framework for migration in Ghana, “we are creating an environment where migrants can contribute meaningfully to development.”
Miss Fatou Ndiaye, IOM Chief of Mission, stressed the importance of coordination, noting that effective partnerships prevented confusion among stakeholders and ensured cohesive support for migrants.
She noted that the ATUU project will also improve migration data systems, enabling better policymaking and targeted assistance.
GNA
SOF