Ghana Moves Nearly 900 Citizens to Safe Havens Ahead of June 30 Anti‑Immigrant Protests in South Africa

Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa has relocated close to 900 Ghanaian nationals to secure facilities as part of intensified efforts to protect them ahead of planned anti‑immigration demonstrations scheduled for June 30.

The relocation forms a critical phase of a coordinated evacuation operation led by the Ghana High Commission, working in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President. The initiative is aimed at safeguarding citizens who have voluntarily registered to return home amid rising security concerns.

Speaking to Citi News on Sunday, Ghana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, confirmed that government has completed major logistical preparations for the next round of repatriation while maintaining close surveillance of the evolving security situation.

According to him, nearly 900 Ghanaians have signed up for evacuation—following the successful repatriation of 938 nationals in an earlier phase. Many of those awaiting departure have already been moved into designated safe havens, with South African police formally notified to provide additional protection during this period of heightened tension.

“We’re looking at very close to 900 people who have written their names and want to return. We’ve already repatriated 938 people, and adding another 900 will bring the exercise to finality for those who have voluntarily requested to return home,” Ambassador Quashie said.

He added that the High Commission has requested police protection for all facilities accommodating affected nationals to ensure their safety until the evacuation process is fully completed.

These precautionary steps come amid renewed fears of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where anti‑immigration protests have triggered anxiety among foreign nationals, including members of the Ghanaian community.

Ghanaian authorities say they remain committed to safeguarding citizens abroad and will continue collaborating with South African officials to ensure the evacuation is conducted safely, efficiently, and in an orderly manner.

— Attractive Mustapha Nii Okai Inusah