The Government of Ghana has approved the immediate evacuation of approximately 300 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
The development was disclosed by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, in a social media post on Tuesday. In the post, he revealed that President John Mahama had granted presidential approval for the emergency evacuation exercise.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the affected individuals had earlier complied with advisories issued by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs by registering with the country’s High Commission in Pretoria. This process, he noted, was intended to ensure that Ghanaians in distress could be easily identified and assisted in times of crisis.
He indicated that the evacuation decision follows a recent wave of xenophobic violence, which has reignited safety concerns among migrant communities in South Africa.
While details of the latest incidents remain unclear, previous outbreaks have involved attacks on foreign-owned businesses and individuals, leading to injuries, displacement, and loss of property.
“The Government of Ghana shall continue to safeguard the welfare of all Ghanaians home and abroad,” Mr. Ablakwa stated in the post, reaffirming government’s commitment to citizen protection.
Although authorities are yet to announce a specific timeline for the evacuation, officials are expected to work closely with diplomatic missions to coordinate travel arrangements and ensure a safe return for those affected.
The situation once again highlights persistent tensions surrounding xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has, over the years, drawn widespread condemnation from across the African continent, including Ghana.
Further updates are expected as government finalizes plans for the evacuation exercise.
CREDIT: Mavis Fantevi
