The Ghanaian government has facilitated the repatriation of veteran musician Isaac Obeng Mensah, popularly known as Barosky, from the United Kingdom following concerns over his welfare and the circulation of a distressing video of him on social media.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that veteran musician Barosky arrived safely in Ghana on Monday night.
Mr Ablakwa said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs covered the full cost of the musician’s repatriation, in line with its consular responsibilities to Ghanaians abroad.
He said the government is also providing psychosocial support and financial assistance to Barosky to facilitate his reintegration into society following his return to Ghana.
“We are most grateful to our fellow citizens, particularly Nana Romeo, for bringing Barosky’s heart-wrenching plight in Manchester to our attention,” the Minister said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.
Mr Ablakwa also commended Ghana’s High Commission in the UK for what he described as its “impressive coordination” in facilitating the intervention.
Ghana High Commission Intervenes
The intervention followed a visit to Manchester by Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sabah Zita Benson, who met with Barosky and members of the Ghanaian community after receiving several reports concerning the musician’s welfare.
Mrs Benson said the mission was ready to facilitate Barosky’s return to Ghana should he express a preference to come home.
“Barosky has contributed immensely to Ghanaian music, and we all need to come together as a community to help him get back on his feet,” she said.
Mr Ablakwa reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Ghanaians who find themselves in distress while abroad.
“We strive to leave no Ghanaian behind,” he said.
The government’s intervention follows growing public concern over Barosky’s welfare after videos of the musician in Manchester drew widespread attention on social media.