The first group of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa amid renewed xenophobic unrest arrived safely in Accra on Wednesday, May 27, as part of a major government initiative aimed at protecting citizens affected by the escalating tensions abroad.
A government delegation, led by the Chief of Staff and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, was present at the airport to welcome the evacuees upon their return.
The evacuation operation was organised through Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following increasing reports of attacks, intimidation, and hostility targeting foreign nationals, which created fear among migrant communities.
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Many of those evacuated are believed to have escaped from areas where tensions intensified in recent weeks, with reports indicating that several migrants experienced harassment, threats, and destruction of property.
Authorities said support measures have been arranged for the returnees, including temporary relief, counselling services, and reintegration assistance for affected individuals and families.
The evacuation exercise was originally expected to begin on May 21, but officials postponed the process after a significantly larger number of Ghanaians requested assistance than initially anticipated.
The sudden increase placed additional pressure on logistics, including travel documentation, transportation, accommodation, and flight arrangements, as authorities worked to ensure the safe return of all affected persons.
The latest evacuations have once again highlighted the persistent issue of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have repeatedly been targeted during periods of economic difficulty and social unrest.
Migrants from countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Malawi have frequently been affected by attacks often linked to frustrations over unemployment, crime, and competition for jobs and business opportunities.
Some of the most severe incidents occurred in 2008 when dozens were killed and thousands displaced. Similar outbreaks were recorded again in 2015 and 2019, prompting widespread condemnation across Africa and renewed demands for stronger protection of migrants.
Although South African authorities have consistently denounced xenophobic violence and pledged to protect all residents regardless of nationality, many migrants continue to express fears about their safety during periods of unrest.
The arrival of the evacuees in Accra reflects growing concern over the welfare and security of Ghanaians living abroad, particularly in countries facing social instability and anti-foreigner sentiments.
Government officials have indicated that further evacuations could take place as authorities continue to monitor developments in South Africa and engage with affected Ghanaian communities through diplomatic channels.