Government praises Church of Pentecost for sheltering Ghanaians during South Africa attacks

The Government has lauded the Church of Pentecost for offering shelter to Ghanaians impacted by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, resulting in the deaths of two Ghanaian citizens. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed this commendation during a visit to the church's leadership. He informed that over 500 Ghanaians were provided refuge in three major church branches for two and a half months.

Many of these individuals had initially hoped for a better situation in South Africa, hence refraining from requesting evacuation during the initial phase. However, as conditions deteriorated, they found themselves in dire need of immediate aid. The church provided accommodation, food, and essential support to the displaced Ghanaians, with some church services temporarily suspended to accommodate those seeking refuge.

A final group of Ghanaians currently residing at the church's largest Johannesburg branch will be evacuated on Sunday, with two more evacuation rounds scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. President John Dramani Mahama and the government have expressed their gratitude to the church for this remarkable humanitarian effort. The Church of Pentecost Chairman, Apostle Nyamekye, also commended the government, recounting a harrowing experience of his own during his time in South Africa.