The Government of Ghana has granted indefinite residence permits to approximately 500 Ivorian refugees, reinforcing its commitment to refugee protection and integration.
The official ceremony, held in Accra, was presided over by the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak. The event was attended by the Ivorian Ambassador to Ghana, representatives from the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the Ghana Refugee Board, and the Ghana Immigration Service.
Addressing the refugees, Hon. Muntaka described the residence permits as a symbol of Ghana’s hospitality and solidarity. However, he emphasized that the permits carry legal responsibilities.
“This permit is a sign of welcome and support,” he said. “But it comes with responsibilities. Anyone who breaks the law risks having their permit revoked.”
The move reflects Ghana’s long-standing support for displaced persons, particularly those affected by political instability in neighbouring West African nations. According to the UNHCR, many of the beneficiaries fled Côte d’Ivoire during periods of civil unrest over the past two decades.
Officials say the decision will provide the refugees with legal status, improve access to social services, and enhance their ability to contribute to Ghanaian society.
