Government approves evacuation of 300 Ghanaians from South Africa amid Xenophobic attacks

The government has approved the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians from South Africa following a renewed wave of xenophobic violence reported in parts of the country.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that President John Dramani Mahama had granted presidential approval for the evacuation as part of efforts to safeguard Ghanaian nationals affected by the attacks.

He explained that the affected citizens had earlier responded to an advisory issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and had registered with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria for possible evacuation support.

“His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has granted presidential approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa,” Mr Ablakwa stated in a Facebook post.

“These distressed Ghanaians had earlier complied with the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with our High Commission in Pretoria to be rescued following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks,” he added.

The Foreign Minister reiterated government’s commitment to the protection of Ghanaian citizens both locally and abroad, stressing that their safety remains a priority.

“The Government of Ghana shall continue to safeguard the welfare of all Ghanaians, at home and abroad,” he said.

The evacuation move follows growing concern over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals and migrant-owned businesses, including those belonging to Ghanaians, have periodically come under threat.