Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has handed over indefinite residence permits to about 500 Ivorian refugees living in Ghana.

The ceremony held on Wednesday was attended by the Ivorian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Assiélou Félix Tanon, representatives from UNHCR, the Ghana Refugee Board, and the Ghana Immigration Service.

While presenting the permits, the Interior Minister reminded the beneficiaries that these are revocable and encouraged them to always abide by the laws of Ghana.

This gesture reflects Ghana’s strong commitment to protecting and supporting refugees and asylum seekers.

H.E. Assiélou Félix Tanon expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Ghana for the hospitality and support shown to Ivorian nationals over the years.

Ghana continues to open its arms to other Africans who employ the legal channels to make their way to the country.

On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 524 members of the African diaspora were officially granted Ghanaian citizenship in a landmark ceremony at the Accra International Conference Centre.

This occasion, the third under the administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, celebrated the strengthening of ties between Ghana and its diaspora community, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to reconnecting with its global African family.

Addressing the new citizens, the former President Akufo-Addo spoke with deep emotion about the historical and cultural significance of the day.

“Your ancestors left these shores under tragic and inhumane circumstances. Today, we reclaim that connection by welcoming you as part of our Ghanaian family,” he declared.

He further reminded the recipients that Ghanaian citizenship is more than a legal status.

“Being Ghanaian is about embracing values such as respect, equity, and peace. These principles are at the heart of our identity, and we invite you to embody them as you integrate into our society,” he added.

Reflecting on the success of the Year of Return, then-President Akufo-Addo highlighted its impact in rekindling ties with the diaspora and fostering a global conversation about the role of African descendants in shaping the continent’s future.

“This initiative was not just about tourism; it was about creating a pathway for our brothers and sisters abroad to reconnect with their roots,” he said.