The Government of Ghana has begun arrangements to repatriate the first batch of citizens from South Africa following escalating anti-immigrant protests and rising xenophobic tensions targeting foreign nationals in several parts of the country.
According to Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, the first group of evacuees, part of an estimated 800 Ghanaians who registered for evacuation, are expected to be flown home from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport as security concerns intensify.
The Ghana High Commission in South Africa confirmed that buses were deployed to transport registered citizens to the airport under official supervision ahead of their departure.
Officials say the evacuation exercise is being carried out in phases, with the first batch prioritised due to urgent safety concerns, while the remaining registrants are undergoing screening for subsequent flights.
A Ghanaian diplomatic official in South Africa explained that the evacuation process is being done in an orderly and safe manner.
“We are prioritising those who have expressed immediate concern for their safety due to the ongoing situation,” the official said.
The move follows weeks of anti-immigrant demonstrations in parts of South Africa, where groups have called for undocumented foreigners to leave the country, raising fears of renewed xenophobic violence.
One evacuee told reporters he was leaving due to insecurity and uncertainty.
“It’s not comfortable for us to stay here anymore, so we have to go. I think we will find peace at home.”
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, said the government’s priority is the safety and dignity of its citizens abroad.
“The Ghanaian government listened to the plight of its citizens in South Africa, who felt that their lives were in danger and that their economic activities had come to a standstill. It is the responsibility of every government to ensure the safety of its citizens both at home and abroad, ” Mr Quashie stated.
He added that a reintegration plan has been put in place to support returning citizens in resettling and restarting their livelihoods in Ghana.
Meanwhile, government sources indicate that around 300 citizens are part of the first departure group, with additional flights expected in the coming days as processing continues.
South African authorities have previously condemned attacks on foreigners while also acknowledging public concerns over illegal immigration and pressure on social services.
Ghanaian authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation and working with South African officials to ensure the safe and orderly return of all affected citizens.
