Ghana has commenced the evacuation of its nationals from South Africa following rising xenophobic tensions that have heightened fears among sections of the Ghanaian community living there.
The exercise, being coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria and South African authorities, is expected to begin with the arrival of the first batch of evacuees in Accra on Wednesday, May 27.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, reassured affected nationals that the Government of President Mahama remains committed to their safety and welfare during the process.
In a message following engagements with Ghanaians in South Africa, the Minister declared, “I told Ghanaians in South Africa, ‘your government has got you.’ Looking forward to welcoming our compatriots to Ghana this week.”
His remarks come amid growing concerns over xenophobic tensions in parts of South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically faced hostility and attacks linked to economic and social grievances.
Screening and Verification Underway
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, disclosed that authorities are currently conducting screening and verification exercises to finalise the list of individuals expected to join the first evacuation flight.
According to him, officials from both Ghana and South Africa are working around the clock to ensure that all travel and immigration arrangements are completed ahead of departure.
“We are screening them, and once we are done, we will let them know the number of people who will be going to Ghana, and we are expecting to have between 200 and 300 people here today”.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie
Mr Quashie explained that South African Home Affairs officials are expected to support the processing exercise to facilitate the smooth departure of evacuees. He added that the first evacuation flight is scheduled to depart South Africa at 6 a.m. on Wednesday for Accra.
More Flights Scheduled
The High Commissioner revealed that the evacuation operation will extend beyond the first batch because the number of Ghanaians seeking to return home has exceeded initial estimates.
According to him, additional flights have already been arranged to transport more nationals who have registered for evacuation.
“The first group has an aircraft that will take 300 and after some few days, we will take another 300 and then there will be a third flight with another 300 to ensure that we get everyone home”.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie
Officials say the phased arrangement is intended to ensure orderly processing while allowing all registered individuals to return safely. The authorities believe the additional flights will help manage the high demand and prevent congestion during screening and departure procedures.
Evacuation Delayed After Surge in Numbers
The evacuation exercise was initially expected to commence on Thursday, May 21, but was postponed after officials recorded a much higher number of interested evacuees than anticipated.
According to authorities, the increase required additional logistical arrangements and expanded verification processes to accommodate all applicants.
Officials explained that the delay was necessary to ensure proper coordination between immigration services, diplomatic officials, and transport authorities before the flights could begin.
Government has assured affected nationals that the postponement was aimed at guaranteeing a smoother and more organised evacuation process.
Rising Concerns Over Xenophobia
The evacuation follows renewed anxiety among foreign nationals in South Africa amid reports of increasing tensions in some communities.
Over the years, xenophobic incidents in South Africa have affected several African nationals, including Ghanaians, with attacks sometimes targeting foreign owned businesses and migrant communities.
Although South African authorities have consistently condemned xenophobic violence and pledged to maintain law and order, concerns among some foreign nationals have continued to rise during periods of tension.
Many Ghanaians who registered for evacuation are said to have expressed fears about their safety and future security in affected areas.
Government Assures Continued Support
The Foreign Affairs Ministry says the evacuation exercise forms part of government’s broader commitment to protecting Ghanaian citizens abroad during emergencies and periods of instability.
Officials indicate that diplomatic missions have been directed to continue engaging affected communities while monitoring developments closely. The operation also highlights the role of Ghana’s foreign missions in providing emergency support for nationals living outside the country.
As preparations continue for the arrival of the first batch of evacuees, government officials say efforts remain focused on ensuring the safe and orderly return of all registered Ghanaians from South Africa.
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