South Africa returnees form ‘Evacuation Boys’ to support sanitation in Ghana

A group of Ghanaian evacuees from South Africa, known as the "Evacuation Boys," have vowed to aid Ghana's progress by participating in sanitation improvements and promoting a cleaner nation. Their slogan, "Evacuation Boys; We Came Back to Give Back," reflects their commitment to giving back to the country they call home. The group, which arrived in Ghana on August 17, 2026, joined the 85 other evacuees who repatriated as part of the government's second phase of the exercise.

Among the evacuees, over 1,700 have returned to Ghana since the repatriation began. The leader of the Evacuation Boys, Richard Addai, emphasized that their return was more than a homecoming, describing it as an opportunity to contribute to Ghana's development. Addai noted that despite facing xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the group remains hopeful and determined to channel their experiences into something positive for Ghana.

Their primary focus is on supporting efforts to enhance sanitation and environmental cleanliness, with the intention of becoming part of the solution to the challenges the country faces. The Evacuation Boys' message comes amid the government's efforts to ensure that the return of Ghanaians from South Africa goes beyond physical evacuation, including successful reintegration into society.

Mr. Harold Agyemang, the Coordinating Director of Political and Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explained that the government has put measures in place to support returnees as they rebuild their lives and regain their economic footing after facing difficult circumstances that led to their repatriation. These measures include transportation assistance, reintegration support, and medical and psychosocial support for those experiencing trauma and distress in South Africa.

The government's repatriation exercise followed heightened xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of Ghanaian nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised Ghanaians in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and stay away from protests, marches, road blockades, and large gatherings.

The government's intervention aimed to bring citizens home safely and help them rebuild their lives, emphasizing that the welfare of the returnees remains the government's responsibility, regardless of their current location.