Government evacuates additional 150 Ghanaians from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks
The Government of Ghana has evacuated another 150 citizens from South Africa as part of efforts to protect Ghanaians affected by ongoing xenophobic attacks, bringing the total number of evacuees since May 2026 to 1,324.
The latest batch arrived at the Accra International Airport on Monday, August 3, where they were welcomed by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, alongside senior officials from the ministry and representatives of other state institutions.
Addressing the returnees, Mr Quayson expressed gratitude for their safe arrival and assured them of the government's commitment to supporting their reintegration into Ghanaian society. He encouraged them to remain optimistic and draw on the skills, knowledge and experience they acquired in South Africa to rebuild their lives and contribute to national development.
He also urged the evacuees not to harbour resentment towards South Africans despite their experiences, stressing that both nations remain part of the broader African family. He called on them to embrace peace, unity and the opportunities available as they begin a new chapter in Ghana.
Mr Quayson reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all Ghanaians, noting that the Mahama administration would continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the successful reintegration of the returnees.
According to him, government will profile the evacuees based on their skills and career interests to facilitate employment and livelihood opportunities. He further disclosed that each returnee would receive a reintegration grant to support their resettlement.
The Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister also commended AirtelTigo and Telecel Ghana for providing free mobile connectivity to the evacuees to ease communication during the reintegration process.
Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Mr Phillip expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana for facilitating their safe return. He also thanked Ghana's High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Benjamin Quashie, his staff, religious leaders and other stakeholders for their assistance throughout the evacuation process.
Officials from the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Immigration Service, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Ghana Red Cross Society, Port Health authorities and other state agencies were present at the airport to support the returnees and ensure a smooth arrival and reintegration process.