Ibrahim Mahama Funds Business Startup for Ghanaian Evacuated From South Africa

In a powerful display of Ghanaian solidarity and private sector philanthropy, business mogul Ibrahim Mahama has pledged to fully sponsor a business startup for Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, the Ghanaian national who was a victim of the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa .

The announcement was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, following a meeting with the rescued citizen on May 8, 2026. This gesture marks a significant turning point in a story that began with a distressing viral video but is now heading toward an inspiring recovery.

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The Government’s Role: Relocation and Reintegration

The story gained international attention when Emmanuel Asamoah was seen in a social media video being harassed and intimidated by a group in South Africa, accused of "taking jobs" from locals . In response, the Ghanaian government, under the directive of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, swiftly acted to evacuate him back to Accra, covering all costs associated with his return .

Upon his arrival, Minister Ablakwa hosted Mr. Asamoah at the ministry. Describing the meeting as "warm and encouraging," Ablakwa noted that the discussions focused on rebuilding his life and securing his future prospects in Ghana .

Ibrahim Mahama Steps In: "A Business of His Choice"

The most significant turning point came when Ibrahim Mahama, the renowned business magnate and founder of Engineers & Planners, personally reached out to the Foreign Ministry.

According to Ablakwa’s official statement, "I am pleased to disclose that business mogul, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, has reached out to me and offered to fully sponsor any business startup of Mr. Asamoah’s choice here in Ghana" .

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This offer goes beyond simple donation; it is an investment in entrepreneurship. By allowing the victim to choose the type of business he wants to pursue, the intervention provides dignity and a long-term solution rather than just temporary relief.

· The Beneficiary: Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah .

· The Benefactor: Ibrahim Mahama (brother of President John Dramani Mahama).

· The Scope: Full financial coverage for a business of the victim's choice .

A Broader Call for Safety

While this individual act of kindness provides a template for private sector intervention, the incident has reignited conversations about the safety of Ghanaians abroad.

Minister Ablakwa has used this moment to assure the public that the government is prioritizing citizen welfare. He reiterated that Ghanaians in South Africa who wish to return home can contact the High Commission and have their relocation expenses covered by the state .

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has also called for presidential-level engagement between President John Mahama and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to secure stronger protections for Ghanaian nationals still residing in South Africa .

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Conclusion

The narrative surrounding xenophobia is often one of despair, but the response to Emmanuel Asamoah’s situation offers a counter-narrative of hope and action. From a government quick to evacuate its citizen to a billionaire willing to finance a new beginning, the message is clear: Ghana stands firmly behind its own.

As Mr. Asamoah decides on his new venture, the nation watches not with pity, but with anticipation for a success story born from the ashes of hardship.

Ghanaweb ⬇️ 

Ibrahim Mahama to fund business startup of viral xenophobia victim – Ablakwa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Emmanuel Asamoah?

Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah is a Ghanaian national who was attacked and harassed in South Africa during recent anti-immigrant protests, a video of which went viral online .

2. What exactly is Ibrahim Mahama offering?

Ibrahim Mahama is offering to fully finance (sponsor) any business startup that Emmanuel Asamoah chooses to pursue in Ghana. This includes the capital required to get the business running .

3. Did the government help bring him back?

Yes. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, facilitated his evacuation from South Africa and the government bore the full cost of his relocation back to Ghana .

4. What is being done about the xenophobia situation?

The Foreign Affairs Ministry is engaging with South African authorities. Meanwhile, the Ghanaian government has assured that any citizen in South Africa fearing for their safety can contact the High Commission for assisted relocation.