Xenophobic attacks: 1,964 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that a total of 1,964 Ghanaian nationals were evacuated from South Africa due to the worsening security conditions and xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals. The evacuation, which took place from May 27 to September 4, 2026, involved both chartered and commercial flights.

Ablakwa highlighted the government's priority in safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians in South Africa, as the situation escalated. Ghana was the first country to respond to the tensions by evacuating its nationals from South Africa.

The evacuation process began with a flight on May 27, prioritizing vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and those with health issues. The operation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Ghana's High Commission in Pretoria, and with support from the Presidency, National Security Secretariat, and relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. Ablakwa emphasized that the decision to evacuate was unforeseen, resulting in an unexpected financial burden for the government.

The exercise formed part of the government's comprehensive diplomatic and consular response to the deteriorating situation in South Africa. Ablakwa affirmed the government's commitment to protecting Ghanaians abroad and pledged to take decisive action when the safety and well-being of Ghanaian nationals were threatened. The total cost of the evacuation amounted to GH¢49.72 million, covering expenses such as flights, transportation, accommodation, feeding, medical care, reintegration support, and the repatriation of two Ghanaians who passed away during the crisis.

The government covered GH¢33.72 million, while businessman Ibrahim Mahama's Engineers and Planners contributed GH¢16 million. Each of the 1,964 returnees received a reintegration support of GH¢5,000, along with GH¢500 for transportation.