32 more Ghanaians return from South Africa

Thirty-two Ghanaian nationals, including children, have returned home from South Africa under the government's ongoing evacuation exercise following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.

The returnees arrived at the Accra International Airport as part of the second phase of the voluntary repatriation programme, which began on Sunday, July 26, to assist Ghanaians seeking to leave South Africa over growing security concerns.

Government expects to evacuate about 1,000 additional Ghanaian nationals during this phase of the exercise as authorities continue efforts to ensure the safe return of citizens affected by the recent wave of anti-foreigner violence.

The evacuation programme was initiated in response to renewed attacks on foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, which have heightened fears among Ghanaian residents and prompted many to opt for voluntary repatriation.

Meanwhile, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced a reintegration package for all returnees to support their resettlement in Ghana.

According to the Minister, each evacuee will receive GH¢5,500, comprising a GH¢5,000 reintegration grant and GH¢500 for travel and transport expenses.

He said the government has also put in place additional support measures to facilitate the smooth reintegration of the returnees into society as the evacuation exercise continues.