The first batch of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions has safely arrived in Accra, marking the start of a major government-led operation to protect citizens affected by growing unrest abroad.
A government delegation led by the Chief of Staff and the Foreign Affairs Minister received the evacuees at the airport on Wednesday, May 27, as authorities intensified efforts to assist Ghanaians caught in areas experiencing rising hostility toward foreign nationals.
The evacuation exercise was coordinated through Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after reports of intimidation, harassment and attacks against migrants escalated in recent weeks.
Officials said several of the returnees fled communities where tensions had worsened, with some migrants reportedly facing threats, destruction of property and growing insecurity.
Government authorities indicated that temporary support systems had been put in place for affected individuals and families arriving in Ghana.
The assistance package is expected to include counselling, reintegration support and temporary relief measures as evacuees begin rebuilding their lives after leaving South Africa under difficult circumstances.
The evacuation process was originally scheduled to begin on May 21 but was delayed after authorities recorded a sharp increase in the number of Ghanaians requesting assistance to return home.
Officials explained that the surge created pressure on travel documentation, accommodation, transport arrangements and flight coordination as the government worked to ensure the safe movement of affected citizens.
Renewed focus on xenophobic violence
The latest developments have once again highlighted the recurring problem of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically become targets during times of economic hardship and social tension.
Migrants from countries including Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia and Malawi have previously been affected by outbreaks of violence linked to frustrations over unemployment, crime and competition for jobs and business opportunities.
Some of the deadliest xenophobic attacks in South Africa occurred in 2008, when dozens were killed and thousands displaced. Similar violence resurfaced in 2015 and 2019, triggering condemnation across Africa and renewed calls for stronger protection of migrants.
Although South African authorities have repeatedly condemned xenophobic attacks, concerns remain among migrant communities who fear continued vulnerability during periods of unrest.
Government officials in Ghana say additional evacuation flights may follow as authorities continue monitoring the situation and engaging affected communities through diplomatic channels.
READ ALSO: MTN Ghana Dominates GH¢59.47m GSE Trading Despite Share Price Decline
