Ghana ends South Africa evacuation; brings home nearly 1,900

The Government has completed the evacuation of nearly 1,900 Ghanaians from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, with the final batch of 41 returnees arriving in Accra on Friday, September 4, 2026.

The returnees were met at the Accra International Airport by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who said the arrival marked the conclusion of the government’s evacuation exercise, which began in May 2026.

In all, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs evacuated nearly 1,900 Ghanaian citizens who voluntarily registered to return home amid concerns over their safety in South Africa.

The exercise also involved the repatriation of the remains of two Ghanaians who were attacked and killed in South Africa. A third Ghanaian returnee subsequently died upon arrival in Accra, bringing the total number of deaths recorded in connection with the evacuation exercise to three.

Addressing the final group of 41 returnees, Mr Ablakwa expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for what he described as his commitment to the welfare and safety of Ghanaians wherever they may be.

He urged the returnees not to lose hope as they adjust to life back home, encouraging them to draw on their resilience, skills and experience to contribute to the development of Ghana.

The Minister also reminded the returnees that their reintegration into Ghana would require attention to their physical and general wellbeing. Beyond the reintegration allowance provided by the government, he urged them to prioritise their health and seek medical attention whenever necessary as they rebuild their lives.

Mr Ablakwa further assured the public that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would provide a full account of all funds spent on the evacuation exercise.

He expressed gratitude to the allied government agencies and private-sector partners whose support, he said, helped make the evacuation exercise possible.

With the arrival of the final 41 returnees, the government’s operation to bring home Ghanaians who voluntarily registered for evacuation from South Africa has now come to an end.