Vanderpuije Applauds Government’s Swift Evacuation of Ghanaians Amid South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

Chairman of Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije

Chairman of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, has praised the Government of Ghana for what he describes as a timely and compassionate response to the plight of Ghanaian citizens affected by the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

In a statement, Mr. Vanderpuije commended the government’s decision to evacuate Ghanaians caught in the violence, noting that the intervention reflects strong leadership and a firm commitment to safeguarding citizens beyond Ghana’s borders.

He expressed deep concern over reports of violence, intimidation, and harassment targeted at foreign African nationals in parts of South Africa, stressing that many Ghanaians and other African migrants had been affected by the disturbing developments.

The MP particularly lauded the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for coordinating the evacuation exercise and ensuring the safe return of affected citizens. He also praised Ghana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, and officials of the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for their dedication in supporting citizens during the crisis.

“I am encouraged by the strong assurance given by Government that no Ghanaian citizen would be abandoned in moments of distress regardless of where they may find themselves across the globe. This assurance reflects the true spirit of responsible governance and national solidarity,” he stated.

According to him, the government’s intervention sends a reassuring message to Ghanaians living abroad that their welfare remains a national priority, even in times of crisis. He noted that beyond the evacuation, authorities also provided emergency travel documents, consular assistance, and reintegration support to returning citizens.

“These interventions demonstrate Ghana’s unwavering commitment to the protection, dignity and welfare of its people,” he emphasized.

Mr. Vanderpuije assured the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the full support of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in all efforts aimed at safeguarding Ghanaian citizens abroad and strengthening diplomatic engagements. He added that Parliament stands in solidarity with victims of the attacks and extends sympathy to affected families.

The Ablekuma South legislator further called on African leaders, the African Union, and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to promote unity, tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of human rights across the continent.

“Africa’s strength lies in unity, brotherhood and mutual respect. There is therefore no place for xenophobia, intolerance and violence against fellow Africans anywhere on the continent,” he stressed.

He warned that xenophobia undermines the vision of African integration and threatens the spirit of Pan‑Africanism that has long guided relations among African nations. He urged governments across the continent to work collaboratively to address the root causes of such tensions while strengthening protections for migrants and vulnerable communities.

Mr. Vanderpuije also advised Ghanaians residing in South Africa to remain law‑abiding, maintain close contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission, and adhere to all safety advisories issued by authorities.

His remarks come amid growing concern over renewed attacks on foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting calls for stronger action to protect migrants and uphold the values of African unity and solidarity.