Ghana has welcomed home the first flight carrying citizens evacuated from South Africa amid rising anti-immigration tensions.
The first group, comprising about 300 Ghanaians, arrived earlier today following growing xenophobic violence and instability in parts of South Africa.
The evacuation was confirmed by Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Kofi Quashie, who said the initial batch was scheduled to arrive on May 27.
“The Ghanaian government listened to the plight of its citizens in South Africa, who felt that their lives were in danger, who felt like the economic activity that they were engaging in had come to a standstill, who felt unwelcome in this country. It is the responsibility of every government to ensure that its citizens are taken care of both home and abroad,” the High Commissioner said.
Upon arrival, the Ghanaian authorities received the returnees and provided reintegration support and transport assistance, according to footage shared by Al Jazeera.
The evacuation has sparked widespread reaction online, with some social media users expressing concern over rising xenophobia in South Africa.
One commenter wrote, “I’m disappointed as a South African. This stance we have taken against fellow Africans will only make us weaker as a nation,” while another said, “Send another flight to South Africa, there are still many in my street. A country that cares for its people.”
In the same video, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the government was committed to protecting its citizens abroad.
“Today, the Mahama administration is demonstrating that wherever Ghanaians are, we will ensure you are protected, your dignity is respected, and we will go to the ends of the world to bring you back home safely,” he said.
The xenophobia cited in parts of South Africa has been linked to periodic outbreaks of violence targeting foreign nationals, often driven by socio-economic pressures, including competition for jobs, housing, and public resources. Authorities have also pointed to the role of localised vigilante groups and informal networks in fuelling tensions.
The unrest has previously resulted in the looting of businesses, the displacement of foreign nationals, and the disruption of livelihoods.
The remaining registered Ghanaian citizens are undergoing screening and document verification ahead of subsequent evacuation phases from OR Tambo International Airport.
Ghanaian and South African authorities say they are cooperating to facilitate the safe return of those still awaiting repatriation.