The Ministry of National Security has refuted reports of targeted forced repatriation of Burkinabe refugees in Ghana by the Armed Forces.
The Ministry denies these claims and emphasizes Ghana’s commitment to accommodating displaced Burkinabe nationals who have sought refuge in the Upper East and Upper West regions of the country due to the security situation in southern Burkina Faso.
The Ministry said working in collaboration with the Ghana Refugee Board and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), it has established a temporary reception center in the Upper East Region, specifically designed to house approximately 2,100 displaced individuals from Burkina Faso.
“The reception center is providing shelter to 530 displaced Burkinabes and that the Ghanaian authorities ensure that the refugees have access to free food and medical care.
“Furthermore, efforts are underway to acquire a 30-acre land for the establishment of housing facilities to accommodate more displaced persons,” the statement said.
Contrary to the allegations of forced repatriation, the Ministry indicated that a voluntary repatriation process has been put in place at the reception center for Burkinabe refugees who express a desire to return to their country.
This repatriation process adheres to international protocols governing the management of refugees and has been carried out in collaboration with the Burkinabe Immigration Authorities along the Ghana-Burkina Faso border.
The Ministry of National Security asserted, “We strongly refute claims of forced repatriation and assure the public that Ghana remains committed to upholding human rights, including the rights of refugees and displaced persons from neighbouring countries.”
“Our operations are conducted with the utmost respect for these values while safeguarding our own peace, stability, and territorial integrity.”
The government, the statement said, is dedicated to maintaining peace, stability, and the welfare of its citizens.
The ongoing support and assistance provided to displace Burkinabe refugees, it said, demonstrate Ghana’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities as a host nation while upholding international obligations and promoting humanitarian values.