Coalition of CSOs on migration in Ghana marks International Migrants Day with football gala and wreath-laying ceremony

The Coalition of CSOs on Migration, Ghana (CCMG) joined the global community to commemorate International Migrants Day with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a lively football competition.

The events aimed to honor African migrants who have lost their lives while embarking on perilous journeys in search of refuge or greener pastures.

Held at La Tawala Beach in Accra, the wreath-laying ceremony was a poignant tribute to countless migrants who perished in their quest for better opportunities.

Mr. Eric Kwakye Fiasa, CEO of Right to Be Free and National Coordinator of CCMG, led the commemoration by paying homage to these individuals. He reminded attendees that these migrants were not mere statistics but dreamers who sought a brighter future beyond their shores.

"Today, we remember the mothers, fathers, children, brothers, and sisters who have lost their lives in the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean Sea. They were dreamers seeking a future beyond the shores of their own countries," Mr. Fiasa remarked.

He called on the international community to ensure safe and legal migration pathways, end the criminalization of migrants and refugees, and foster a world where everyone has the right to a safe and dignified life.

Addressing Ghanaian youth, Mr. Fiasa emphasized the dangers of irregular migration and urged them to explore opportunities within the country.

"Let us create a Ghana and an Africa that gives its youth and children hope in their own countries. Together, we can build a world where no one is forced to risk their life in pursuit of a better future," he said.

The football competition, held at the McDan Astro Turf Sports Complex in Labadi, brought together migrants from various nations, including Nigeria and Liberia, for a friendly match. It served as a unifying platform to celebrate the resilience and contributions of migrants.

Speaking on behalf of the European Union, Silvia Tizzi, Programme Officer for the Government Section at the EU Delegation to Ghana, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting migrants. She emphasised the importance of protecting their rights and promoting programs that facilitate regular migration pathways.

"This commemoration is symbolic. We are here today, united in our efforts to honor the memory of migrants who lost their lives and to commit to their protection while fostering new, regular migration pathways," Ms. Tizzi stated.

She highlighted ongoing collaborations between the EU, the Ghana Immigration Service, government ministries, and civil society organizations to address migration challenges effectively.

Chief Calistus Elozieuwa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) and founder of Rescue Life Foundation International, appealed to the Ghanaian government to simplify documentation processes for migrants. With over 25 years of residence in Ghana, Chief Elozieuwa highlighted the difficulties Nigerian migrants face, particularly in obtaining residence permits and registering businesses.

"The cost of doing business, company registration, and obtaining residence permits are significant challenges that need urgent attention," he said.

He stressed that the high costs and complex procedures hinder many migrants from regularizing their stay, leading to undocumented migrants and lost revenue for the government.

Chief Elozieuwa called for streamlined and affordable documentation processes in line with the ECOWAS treaty, which allows free movement within the region.

"We are talking about migration in Europe, yet we face barriers to coexisting here as one people. Simplifying these processes is vital for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for migrants in Ghana," he added.

The event brought together representatives from civil society organizations, migrant communities, and government agencies, all united in their commitment to promoting the rights and dignity of migrants.