Ghana confirms 188 citizens on US deportation list
The Government of Ghana has confirmed that 188 of its nationals have been earmarked for deportation by the United States, as part of a renewed immigration enforcement drive under the administration of United States President Donald Trump.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, June 26, disclosed that U.S. authorities had formally notified the Ministry about the deportation list. He assured that Ghana is actively cooperating with U.S. agencies to ensure the repatriation is conducted in a humane and dignified manner.
“We have so far been formally notified of 188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list,” Mr Ablakwa confirmed. “Our embassies in New York and Washington are cooperating with U.S. counterparts, and travel certificates are being promptly issued.”
He stressed that Ghana would receive all deportees with respect and has activated a comprehensive reintegration programme in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and the Ghana Immigration Service.
“We will be at the airport to welcome our compatriots and ensure they are properly integrated,” he said. “This will be done discreetly to protect their dignity, especially since many are returning under distressing circumstances—some without personal belongings or savings.”
The announcement follows a report by The Washington Post, suggesting that the Trump administration is considering expanding its visa and travel restrictions to cover as many as 36 countries. This would mark a significant increase from the 19 nations affected during Trump’s first term. While Ghana has not been formally named in the expanded ban list, Mr Ablakwa indicated that the government is not leaving anything to chance.
“We’ve had very productive meetings with the U.S. State Department and White House officials. Ghana’s long-standing and strategic ties with the United States will count for something,” he said.
He reiterated that Ghana has consistently demonstrated goodwill in complying with U.S. immigration laws and expects to be treated fairly. “We are confident Ghana will not be treated like countries facing serious national security red flags. Our cooperation has been consistent, and we remain a responsible partner.”
Providing further details, Mr Ablakwa noted that 56 out of the 188 individuals listed have already been returned to Ghana, with the rest at various stages of processing. While acknowledging the U.S. government’s right to enforce its immigration laws, he called for respect for the rights and dignity of those being deported.
In a related development, the Minister also revealed that Ghana had recently collaborated with the United States in the arrest and extradition of suspects involved in a $100 million fraud case. “This level of cooperation underlines the maturity of our bilateral relationship,” he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to engage diplomatically to ensure that any actions taken by U.S. authorities are conducted in accordance with international human rights standards.
