SIMBA RUSHWAYA
PRETORIA– AS Ghanaians living in Gauteng province celebrate their country’s independence, a call has been made to the nationals to legitimise their stay and abide by the laws.

“Firstly, we want to tell Ghanaians that we have left Ghana and we are foreigners here. My call to is to my compatriots to live within South Africa’s framework,” says High Commissioner to South Africa, Kwesi Ahwoi.

“Let us live according to the laws of South Africa and we will not be harassed. If you cannot provide the required documents then you will be on your way to Ghana,” added Ahwoi.

An estimated 10 000 nationals from the West African country live in South Africa.

According to Ahwoi, about 9 000 live in Gauteng where they are in engaged in areas such health, education, trade and hair dressing.

Ahwoi urges his fellow nationals to help cement ties between the two countries by exploring opportunities for collaborations with South African artists.

“There are lots of opportunities in South Africa and we can do collaborations with South Africa especially in music,” he says.

“I’m a fan of music and I listen much to South African jazz. I remember well top South African musician Hugh Masekela collaborating with Ghanaian Becca (Rebecca Akosua Acheampomaa Acheampong).” said Ahwoi.

Ghana was the first sub-Saharan country to attain independence. It attained self-rule from Britain on March 6, 1957.

On Monday, Ahwoi hosted other diplomats at his official residence in the capital city.

Last weekend, as part of commemorations to mark 59 years of independence, Ghanaians participated in a number of sporting events as the Caledonian Stadium in Sunnyside, Pretoria.

– CAJ News