The Government of Ghana on Wednesday, May 27, received the first batch of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals.
The evacuees arrived safely at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra as part of an emergency evacuation exercise coordinated by Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A government delegation led by the Chief of Staff and the Minister for Foreign Affairs was present at the airport to officially welcome the returnees and assure them of government support.
The evacuation follows increasing reports of intimidation, harassment and violent attacks against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, forcing many migrants to flee affected communities over safety concerns.
Some of the evacuees are believed to have escaped areas where tensions have intensified in recent weeks, with reports of threats, assaults and destruction of property involving migrants.
Government officials disclosed that temporary accommodation, counselling services and reintegration support have been arranged to assist affected individuals and families as they settle back into life in Ghana.
Authorities explained that the evacuation exercise was initially expected to commence on May 21 but had to be postponed after a surge in the number of Ghanaians requesting assistance overwhelmed existing logistical arrangements.
Officials said the increase placed pressure on travel documentation processes, accommodation planning, transportation and flight coordination as efforts were made to ensure the safe return of all affected persons.
The latest development has once again brought renewed attention to the recurring problem of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically faced attacks during periods of economic difficulty and social tension.
Over the years, migrants from countries including Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia and Malawi have been affected by such violence, often linked to frustrations over unemployment, crime and competition for jobs and business opportunities.
Some of the deadliest incidents occurred in 2008 when dozens of people were killed and thousands displaced. Similar outbreaks were recorded again in 2015 and 2019, triggering condemnation across Africa and calls for stronger protection for migrants.
Although South African authorities have repeatedly condemned xenophobic attacks and pledged to protect all residents regardless of nationality, concerns remain among migrant communities who continue to fear for their safety during periods of unrest.
Government officials in Ghana say more evacuations may be carried out in the coming days as authorities continue to monitor developments in South Africa and engage affected Ghanaian communities through diplomatic channels.
