Ghana is set to begin evacuating its nationals from South Africa this week amid renewed xenophobic tensions, with the first group expected to arrive in Accra on Wednesday, 27 May, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has said.
Speaking to DW Africa on Sunday, Quashie said authorities were finalising screening and verification processes ahead of departure, as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
“We are screening them, and once we are done, we will let them know the number of people who will be going to Ghana,” he said, adding that officials were working “around the clock” to ensure a coordinated evacuation.
Between 200 and 300 Ghanaians are expected to be on the first flight, with additional evacuations planned in phases.
Quashie said South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs would support final arrangements, including documentation and clearance for departure.
“Home Affairs will set up at 10 am today for them to be able to leave on Wednesday at 6 am for Ghana,” he said.
The evacuation, initially scheduled to begin on May 21, was delayed after a surge in registrations from Ghanaians seeking to return home amid escalating fears.
Authorities now plan to deploy multiple flights to accommodate those affected, with each aircraft expected to carry around 300 passengers.
“The first group has an aircraft that will take 300, and after a few days, we will take another 300, and then there will be a third flight with another 300 to ensure that we get everyone home,” Quashie said.
Officials say the phased approach is intended to ensure order, safety and proper coordination as Ghana responds to the situation.
Renewed reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa have heightened anxiety among migrant communities, prompting several countries to review the safety of their citizens.
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