Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana has received formal notification regarding 188 citizens listed for deportation under U.S. immigration enforcement.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, June 26, 2025, he assured the public that Ghana is fully cooperating with U.S. authorities to ensure an orderly and humane process.
“We have so far been formally notified of 188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list. Our embassies in New York and Washington have been cooperating with our counterparts in the United States, and so far, travel certificates are promptly issued,” he stated.
Okudzeto Ablakwa said Ghana’s embassies in Washington and New York have been working closely with U.S. officials to facilitate the process.
“We will be at the airport to welcome our compatriots and properly integrate them. I can confirm to you that, working with our counterparts at the Ministry of the Interior and the Immigration Service, all necessary arrangements are in place,” he added.
He explained that deportees are received discreetly at the airport to protect their rights and dignity.
“We don’t invite the media because many are returning under distressing circumstances, often without their belongings or savings. It’s our responsibility to ensure they are properly reintegrated,” he noted.
The minister’s comments follow a Washington Post report suggesting that the U.S. government may be preparing a second wave of travel bans, similar to those introduced during President Trump’s first term. While 19 countries were affected then, the new list reportedly includes 36 nations.
Ablakwa stressed that Ghana is proactively engaging U.S. authorities to protect its citizens and avoid potential visa sanctions.
“We’ve had very productive meetings this week with officials from the State Department and the White House, and we are optimistic. Ghana has long-standing, warm, and strategic ties with the United States, ties we believe will be taken into account.”
“We are not taking this lightly. The engagements are ongoing, and we are confident that Ghana will not be treated like countries facing serious national security red flags. Our cooperation has been consistent, and we remain a responsible partner to the United States,” he assured.
JKB/MA
