Government of Ghana has successfully evacuated approximately 1,000 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the development, stating that no Ghanaian had been left behind in danger as the government fulfilled its commitment to protect its citizens abroad.
Speaking after receiving the returnees, Mr Ablakwa described the occasion as a profound moment, emphasising the government’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians, particularly during periods of crisis.
“We kept our promise. No Ghanaian has been abandoned in harm’s way,” the minister said, noting that the evacuation operation had been carried out efficiently through the coordinated efforts of several government agencies and international partners.
He assured the returnees that the government’s support would continue beyond their arrival in Ghana. According to him, measures are being put in place to ensure their successful reintegration into society, including the provision of medical and psychosocial assistance.
Mr Ablakwa further disclosed that the government would pursue compensation for affected Ghanaians who had been forced to leave behind businesses, properties and other investments in South Africa. Efforts are also underway to secure employment opportunities for those able to work.
The minister said the situation had reinforced the need to intensify efforts towards achieving the vision of African unity championed by Kwame Nkrumah, describing genuine African integration as essential to preventing such incidents in the future.
He commended officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, staff of Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria, and several state institutions for their role in the evacuation exercise.
These included the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, National Disaster Management Organisation, Ghana Immigration Service and the Ghana Police Service.
Mr Ablakwa also expressed gratitude to the International Organisation for Migration, Ethiopian Airlines, members of the media and Ghanaian business leaders for supporting the operation and helping to create employment opportunities for returning nationals.
The Foreign Affairs Minister praised President John Dramani Mahama for what he described as inspiring leadership throughout the crisis, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all Ghanaians both at home and abroad.
The evacuation follows renewed concerns over xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically been targeted in attacks linked to tensions over jobs, crime and economic opportunities.
Ghanaian authorities have indicated that they will continue monitoring the situation while providing support to affected citizens.
