Ghanaians Facing Deportation From the U.S

By Jasmine Zahabi

Thousands of Ghanaians in the United States are at risk of deportation following the latest report by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

According to initial data from November 2024, 3,228 Ghanaians were listed for removal as part of a broader crackdown on undocumented immigrants.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

However, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has since clarified that 156 Ghanaians are currently facing imminent deportation, with approximately 40 identified for expedited removal.

Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

Updated Figures and Government Response

During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 31, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa dismissed earlier reports of higher numbers, stating that official U.S. communication confirms a significantly lower number of Ghanaian deportees than initially feared.

He assured that the Ghanaian government is actively engaging U.S. authorities to ensure the rights and dignity of affected citizens are upheld throughout the deportation process.

Despite this clarification, the situation remains dire for those set to be deported. 

Many of them have spent years in the U.S., building livelihoods and supporting families back home.

Reasons for Deportation

ICE states that these individuals—referred to as “aliens” in U.S. immigration policy—are being deported for various reasons, including:Being undocumented (living in the U.S. without legal status)

Failing to claim a credible fear of return when seeking asylum.

Receiving a negative asylum determination upheld by an immigration judge.

Although some individuals have final removal orders, logistical, legal, and diplomatic barriers have slowed the deportation process.

Some returnees at the Kotoka International Airport 

“I Have Nothing to Go Back To”

For many deportees, returning home is not simply a relocation—it is a complete upheaval of their lives. 

Many have spent years or even decades in the U.S., building careers, supporting families, and integrating into American society.

“I have been here for 15 years, Ghana is no longer home to me and I don’t even know where to start if I go back,” said Ama Mensah, a Ghanaian resident in New York who fears deportation.

Another affected individual, Kwame Asare, said he has been the sole provider for his family in Accra, sending remittances every month. “If I’m deported, how will my family survive?” he questioned.

What’s Next for Ghanaian Deportees?

Despite the Ghanaian government's engagement with U.S. authorities, there has been no clear plan for reintegrating deportees once they return home.

Experts warn that a sudden influx of deportees could lead to unemployment, homelessness, and social stigmatization.

Many returnees struggle to reintegrate due to a lack of jobs and housing, leaving them in financial distress.

A Call for Action

With over 150 Ghanaians at risk, stakeholders are urging the Ghanaian government to:

Negotiate with U.S. authorities for humane treatment and possible legal alternatives.

Develop reintegration programs to support returnees with employment and housing.

Offer legal and psychological support to ease the transition for deported individuals.

As deportation flights continue, many Ghanaian immigrants in the U.S. remain uncertain about their future.

The question remains: Will Ghana step up to support its deported citizens before it’s too late?

Comments

  1. Christian Josué HouessouFebruary 3, 2025 at 11:07 PM

    Will Ghana step up to support its deported citizens before it’s too late?

    We really hope they do something. A support from the government will be very much appreciated. Like iur parents who will always give support even when we are wrong, government should also show some support to these fellows

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jasmine ZahabiFebruary 7, 2025 at 8:10 AM

      I completely agree. Many of those deported had no choice but to seek better opportunities abroad, and now that they have returned, they deserve structured support to reintegrate. The government should implement effective programs—such as employment opportunities, counseling, and reintegration resources—not just for their benefit, but for the overall well-being of society.

      Delete

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