Ablakwa urges Africa to see immigrants as development partners
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has called on African countries to recognise immigrants as partners in national development rather than viewing them as a threat to economic progress.
He said migration could be effectively managed through proper regulation while respecting free movement protocols and safeguarding the rights of people travelling across borders.
Mr Ablakwa made the remarks in an interview with TV3 on Saturday, October 10, 2026, while commenting on renewed tensions in South Africa following developments related to an apex court ruling on the rights of asylum seekers.
He argued that immigrants and people travelling under Africa’s free movement arrangements should not be regarded as obstacles to national progress.
According to him, African countries can introduce measures to regulate migration without infringing on the rights of travellers.
Describing himself as an optimist about Africa’s future, the Foreign Affairs Minister expressed confidence in the continent’s integration agenda.
He reiterated his belief in the vision of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, for African countries to unite politically and achieve economic independence.
Mr Ablakwa noted that although the continent had made significant progress in overcoming colonialism, imperialism and political subjugation, more efforts were needed to address poverty and economic underdevelopment.
He said Africa must now focus on overcoming these economic challenges, expressing confidence that the continent could achieve that goal.
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