Ghana’s government has completed the evacuation of 1,964 citizens from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks. The operation, which began in May 2026, concluded on September 4 with the arrival of the final group of 41 evacuees in Accra. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the effort, which included chartered flights and ground transportation, as a response to safety concerns for Ghanaians living in the country.
The evacuation cost approximately GHC49.72 million, according to Ablakwa, who also announced plans for a Diaspora Fund to support Ghanaians in distress abroad. Many Ghanaians in South Africa were left stranded after the xenophobic violence intensified, prompting calls for urgent repatriation. Despite the government’s efforts, some individuals remained unable to return home, leading to renewed pleas for additional evacuation support.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Ghanaian diaspora in South Africa, where xenophobic incidents have escalated in recent months. While the evacuation was successful for most, the financial and logistical burden underscores the need for long-term solutions to protect expatriate communities. The government’s proposal for a dedicated emergency fund aims to address these concerns more effectively in the future.
