Close to 900 Ghanaians Set for Evacuation from South Africa Before Anti-Immigration Protests

The Ghanaian government is racing to evacuate close to 900 of its nationals from South Africa before planned anti-immigration protests erupt on 30th June. Ghana's Ambassador to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, confirmed that the High Commission has already moved a number of those registered for repatriation into secure locations whilst final logistical arrangements are put in place.

Speaking to Citi FM on Sunday, 28th June, Ambassador Quashie said the operation is being jointly managed by the High Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Office of the President. He noted that this latest batch of nearly 900 people follows an earlier successful repatriation exercise in which 938 Ghanaians were brought home safely.

"We've already repatriated 938 people, and adding another 900 will bring the exercise to a finality for those who have voluntarily requested to return home," Ambassador Quashie said. He added that South African police have been officially informed of the locations where Ghanaians are being sheltered and have been asked to provide protection given the heightened tensions across the country.

The Ambassador expressed confidence that the exercise would be completed without incident, citing cooperation from South African security agencies. He stressed that participation is entirely voluntary, with only those who have formally registered for repatriation being included in the evacuation.

The move comes amid growing anxiety over xenophobic sentiment in South Africa, which has in previous years resulted in violent attacks on foreign nationals, including Ghanaians. The Ghanaian government says it is taking precautionary steps to safeguard the welfare of its citizens in the country ahead of the demonstrations.