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“We Should Not See Immigrants as Detrimental to Our National Progress” — Ablakwa
Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has called on fellow Africans not to see immigrants and people who travel using free movement protocols as detrimental to national progress. He made the statement in a one-on-one interview on Key Points, a TV3 talk show, on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
His remarks came in reaction to renewed tensions in South Africa following a decision by its apex court on the rights of asylum seekers. Furthermore, he stressed that immigrants are not parasites and that regulated migration can work for the benefit of all.
Immigrants Are Not Parasites — Ablakwa
Minister Ablakwa was direct in his defence of immigrants and free movement at the Key Points interview. He said Africans should not view people who travel using free movement protocols as threats to their countries.
Moreover, he called for an arrangement where regulated migration is in place, free movement protocols are respected, and the rights of all persons are protected regardless of their status as travelers.
Therefore, he argued that xenophobia and hostility toward immigrants contradict the spirit of African integration and unity.
A Perpetual Optimist in the African Integration Project
Ablakwa described himself as a perpetual optimist in the African project and the continental integration agenda. He said he remains firmly optimistic and believes in the vision of Kwame Nkrumah that Africans can unite and form a political union that leads to economic emancipation.
Furthermore, he said Africa has already won the battle against political subjugation, colonialism, and imperialism. As a result, he stressed that the continent must now win the war against poverty and economic underdevelopment.
He expressed strong belief that this goal can be achieved through unity and cooperation.