By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | May 28, 2026
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has assured Ghanaians living in South Africa that additional evacuation flights will be arranged next week as government intensifies efforts to safely repatriate citizens affected by rising anti-immigrant tensions in the country.
The assurance follows the arrival of nearly 300 Ghanaians in Accra under a voluntary repatriation programme launched in response to growing fears over xenophobic hostility and safety concerns in parts of South Africa. Ghanaian authorities say more than 800 citizens have so far registered to return home.
According to officials, many more people than initially expected have requested evacuation assistance, prompting government to expand arrangements and prepare additional flights to accommodate registered nationals still seeking to leave South Africa. Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, indicated that fresh departures are expected in the coming days as registration and travel processing continue.
Ablakwa reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring no Ghanaian willing to return home is left behind, stressing that authorities remain engaged with South African officials to complete the legal, technical, and logistical requirements necessary for smooth evacuation operations. Earlier delays in the exercise were linked to passenger screening procedures, inter-agency coordination, and flight permit approvals.
The repatriation effort comes amid renewed protests and anti-immigration sentiment in parts of South Africa, where some foreign nationals have reported harassment, intimidation, and fears for their safety. The unrest has been fueled by tensions surrounding unemployment, crime, and undocumented migration, with immigrants from several African countries increasingly becoming targets of public anger.
Government officials say returnees arriving in Ghana will receive reintegration assistance, including psychosocial support, temporary financial relief, and referrals for employment and business opportunities to help them rebuild their lives after returning home. Some evacuees reportedly included individuals who had overstayed visas or faced immigration-related detention before arrangements were made for their safe return.
Authorities have meanwhile urged calm among Ghanaians still residing in South Africa, assuring citizens that diplomatic efforts remain active and evacuation arrangements will continue until all those seeking assistance are accounted for.
