Ghana evacuates 1,000 citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks, promises support
Ghana evacuated about 1,000 of its citizens from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting black Africans; the evacuees arrived Saturday night at Accra International Airport and were received by government officials. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Ablakwa announced the evacuation in a Facebook post, stating the government kept its promise to protect Ghanaians in harm’s way.
The evacuation matters because attacks have escalated regionally—Mozambique reported at least five nationals killed, Nigeria announced plans for free evacuation flights, and Ghana warned citizens against non-essential travel to South Africa. Upon arrival, AirtelTigo distributed SIM cards with airtime and data to help returnees reconnect with family. The government pledged reintegration with dignity, medical and psychosocial support, compensation for lost properties and businesses, and job opportunities for those able to work.
Some returnees used the moment to call for amending Ghana’s Constitution to allow former President John Mahama a third term, describing him as the second Kwame Nkrumah. The minister thanked officials, the International Organisation for Migration, Ethiopian Airlines, and private partners for the operation’s smooth execution. With xenophobic violence recurring in South Africa, will Ghana focus on strengthening consular protection for citizens abroad, or push for regional mechanisms to address the root causes of anti-immigrant attacks?