The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has assured Parliament that robust emergency communication systems have been activated to assist Ghanaians affected by the recent unrest in Togo.
Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, July 23, the minister stated that Ghana’s mission in Lomé has established 24-hour communication lines and is in constant contact with the Ghanaian community in Togo.
“I can confirm that our dynamic and hardworking staff at our mission in Lomé have been in touch with the Ghanaian community and have established 24-hour communication channels,” he stated.
He added that his ministry is prepared to submit a detailed report outlining the nature of calls received and the kind of assistance sought by Ghanaians caught in the unrest.
Okudzeto Ablakwa also revealed that prior to the recent crisis, a directive had been issued to all 71 Ghanaian diplomatic missions worldwide to maintain 24-hour hotline services.
“We have to be responsive. All calls will now be recorded, and systems are being put in place to allow for multiple calls to be received at the same time,” he disclosed.
According to him, missions were given June 16 deadline to fully install these modern communication systems, adding that so far, 52 of the missions have complied, with ongoing efforts to support the rest.
“We are dealing head-on with the challenge of non-responsiveness. Our embassies must be responsive, particularly to the needs of Ghanaians within their jurisdictions,” he emphasised.
The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Ghanaian nationals amid escalating political tensions in Togo.
AS/AE
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