Ghana President John Mahama has approved the immediate evacuation of about 300 Ghanaians from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks targeting foreigners in parts of the country.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed the development in a statement shared on X, saying the affected citizens had earlier registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria after the government issued an advisory.
According to him, the evacuation process was approved after reports of renewed attacks and harassment against foreign nationals and businesses, particularly in areas such as KwaZulu-Natal and Durban.
Ablakwa said the Ghanaian government remained committed to protecting its citizens abroad and ensuring their safe return.
The latest tensions have also prompted responses from other African countries. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu recently announced a voluntary repatriation arrangement for Nigerians willing to leave South Africa.
Reports indicate that more than 130 Nigerians have already registered with Nigerian missions in the country for possible evacuation, while President Bola Tinubu has directed the establishment of emergency support centres for affected citizens.
The renewed attacks have sparked concern across the continent, with growing calls for stronger protection of African migrants living and working in South Africa.
