The Government of Ghana is preparing to evacuate another batch of more than 900 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa as part of its ongoing voluntary repatriation exercise aimed at protecting citizens affected by growing anti-immigrant tensions in the country.
The latest evacuation follows the successful return of earlier groups of Ghanaians who opted to leave South Africa after weeks of protests and reported hostility directed at foreign nationals.
According to government officials, the evacuation is being coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria and South African authorities to ensure the process is conducted safely and efficiently.
Voluntary Repatriation Exercise
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting Ghanaians living abroad, stressing that the evacuation exercise remains entirely voluntary.
He assured affected citizens that the government will continue to provide the necessary logistical and humanitarian support to those who wish to return home until every registered Ghanaian is safely repatriated.
The current operation comes after previous evacuation flights successfully transported hundreds of Ghanaians back to Accra, with many returnees citing safety concerns and increasing uncertainty over their future in South Africa.
Rising Anti-Immigrant Protests
South Africa has in recent months witnessed renewed anti-immigration demonstrations in several communities, with some groups blaming undocumented migrants for rising unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
The tensions have created fear among many foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, prompting the Government of Ghana to activate emergency measures to facilitate the safe return of citizens who no longer feel secure.
Although South African authorities have condemned attacks against foreign nationals and pledged to uphold law and order, Ghana has maintained that the safety and welfare of its citizens remain its highest priority.
Government Commends Diplomatic Cooperation
Officials have praised the close collaboration between Ghanaian and South African authorities, describing the evacuation exercise as a demonstration of strong diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also expressed appreciation to officials at Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria for their efforts in registering affected nationals, providing consular assistance and coordinating transportation arrangements.
Authorities say additional flights will be organised if necessary to accommodate all registered Ghanaians seeking voluntary repatriation.
Government Urges Calm
The Government has encouraged Ghanaians still residing in South Africa to remain calm, stay in regular contact with the Ghana High Commission and follow official advisories.
Citizens requiring assistance have been advised to register with Ghanaian diplomatic officials to facilitate communication and possible evacuation if needed.
Government officials have reaffirmed that Ghana remains committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity and welfare of its citizens, both at home and abroad, while continuing to engage South African authorities through diplomatic channels to ensure the protection of all Ghanaians living in the country.
