Date: May 27, 2026 l By Tammy Williams
The first batch of approximately 300 Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Ghana following growing xenophobic tensions and anti-immigrant violence in parts of the Southern African country.
The repatriation exercise was organised by the Ghanaian government after hundreds of its citizens expressed fears for their safety amid renewed protests targeting foreign nationals. Ghanaian authorities said the returnees would receive comprehensive reintegration support packages, including financial assistance and psychosocial support services.
Officials disclosed that nearly 800 Ghanaians had registered for voluntary evacuation from South Africa as concerns mounted over attacks linked to anti-immigration protests. The first evacuation flight departed Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday carrying families, women, and children seeking to return home.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, said the repatriation effort was intended to protect citizens while helping to ease tensions between both countries. He also noted that additional evacuation flights were expected as more Ghanaians continued to register for the programme.
The latest development follows weeks of protests and incidents of violence in South Africa, where some demonstrators accused undocumented migrants of contributing to crime, unemployment, and pressure on public services. Migrants from several African countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, have reportedly been affected by the unrest.
South African authorities have condemned xenophobic violence and pledged to uphold constitutional protections for all residents and visitors. The government also reiterated its commitment to stronger immigration enforcement while urging calm and diplomatic engagement with affected African nations.
The Ghanaian government had earlier protested circulating videos and reports showing alleged attacks on its citizens in South Africa. Officials maintained that returning nationals would be supported with reintegration measures aimed at helping them rebuild their lives after the evacuation.