By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, April 03, GNA- Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has met with Ghanaians living in Benin to discuss their challenges.
The meeting was part of an initiative launched by the Minister to have direct contact with Ghanaians living abroad.
A statement issued by the minister and copied to the Ghana News Agency, Accra on Thursday said, over 2000 Ghanaians living in Benin expressed concerns about alleged non-recognition of Ghanaian consular identity cards, travel and trade barriers, acquisition of the Ghana card, and lack of support for stranded travelers.
It said they also complained about alleged security harassment, particularly when carting goods to Ghana via road.
The statement said Mr Moses Oklu Tetteh, President of the Ghana Association of United Communities in Benin, led the community in outlining their challenges and calling for support from the Ghana government.
It quoted Mr Ablakwa of assuring the group of government’s willingness to help address their challenges.
“We are committed to supporting Ghanaians living abroad,” said Mr Ablakwa.
“We will work to remove the barriers that hinder your progress and provide you with the necessary support to thrive,” he added.
According to the statement, the Minister also announced a $2 million fund earmarked for emergency purposes for Ghanaians abroad.
It said it was a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by Ghanaians living abroad.
The community also pleaded with the President of Ghana and the Minister to facilitate the actualization of the Representation of the People Amendment Law (ROPAL), which will enable them to exercise their franchise.
As the Ghana government works to address the challenges faced by its citizens living abroad, the meeting between Minister Ablakwa and the Ghanaians living in Benin marks a significant step towards strengthening ties between the government and its diaspora community, the statement added.
GNA