The first batch of Ghanaians being evacuated from South Africa amid growing xenophobic tensions is expected to arrive in Accra today, May 27, as government efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad intensify.
The evacuation exercise, being coordinated through Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, comes in response to increasing fears among many Ghanaians living and working in parts of South Africa following renewed reports of attacks, intimidation, and hostility against foreign nationals.
Authorities had initially announced that the evacuation process would begin on Thursday, May 21. However, the operation was temporarily delayed after officials recorded a much higher number of Ghanaians seeking to return home than originally expected.
The unexpected surge in registrations forced officials to review logistical arrangements, including travel documentation, transportation, accommodation, and flight coordination, to accommodate the larger number of people requesting evacuation assistance.
The renewed xenophobic tensions have reportedly created fear among migrant communities, with several foreign nationals facing harassment, threats, destruction of property, and pressure to leave certain areas.
Although South African authorities have repeatedly condemned xenophobic violence and pledged to protect all residents regardless of nationality, concerns continue to mount among African migrants who say they remain vulnerable during periods of unrest.
For years, South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic attacks, often fuelled by frustrations over unemployment, crime, economic hardship, and competition for jobs and business opportunities.
Foreign nationals from various African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Malawi, have frequently been targeted during such incidents.
Some of the worst episodes of xenophobic violence in South Africa date back to 2008, when dozens of people were killed and thousands displaced.
Similar attacks were recorded in subsequent years, including in 2015 and 2019, sparking condemnation from governments across the continent and calls for stronger protections for African migrants.
The latest evacuation exercise underscores growing concerns about the welfare of Ghanaians living abroad, particularly in regions experiencing social or political instability.
Officials say arrangements have been made to receive the evacuees upon arrival in Ghana, with support expected to include temporary assistance, counselling, and reintegration measures for affected individuals and families.
