The government has commenced the repatriation of 327 Ghanaian nationals stranded in Port Bouët, a municipality in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, following an ongoing mass demolition exercise.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that the affected Ghanaians lost their sources of livelihood and accommodation after the demolition exercise.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 12, 2026, the Ministry said this left them stranded and unable to secure alternative housing.
It added that 228 of the affected nationals had already been successfully repatriated to Ghana on Thursday, June 11.
“We are pleased to disclose that we have already facilitated the repatriation of two hundred and twenty-eight (228) Ghanaian nationals. These returnees arrived in Ghana yesterday, Thursday, 11th June, 2026,” the statement said.
According to the Ministry, all 327 Ghanaians had been residing in areas affected by the demolition exercise in Port Bouët before becoming displaced.
“All three hundred and twenty-seven (327) Ghanaian nationals were previously residing in areas affected by the demolition exercise and became stranded, having lost their sources of livelihood and lacking the means to secure alternative accommodation in Côte d’Ivoire,” it stated.
The Ministry further indicated that arrangements had been completed to bring back the remaining stranded nationals on Friday, June 12.
“Arrangements have been concluded for the remaining Ghanaian nationals to return home today, 12th June, 2026.”
To facilitate the exercise, the government has provided transportation for both the returnees and their belongings.
“The Government of Ghana has provided buses and trucks to convey our nationals and their belongings free of charge back to Ghana safely,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry also revealed that Ivorian authorities have expressed willingness to compensate victims affected by the demolition exercise.
It assured that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan would continue to engage relevant authorities to ensure affected citizens receive the promised compensation.
“The Ministry further wishes to acknowledge that Ivorian authorities have expressed their desire to compensate the victims of their demolition exercise and shall therefore remain actively engaged on the matter to ensure that the promised compensation is received by our affected nationals,” the statement said.
The government reiterated its commitment to the welfare and protection of Ghanaians abroad and pledged to support the successful return and reintegration of the affected individuals.
