The first batch of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa amid rising xenophobic tensions has arrived safely at the Accra International Airport on Wednesday, May 27, aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight.
The arrival marks the start of a government-led repatriation exercise aimed at bringing home Ghanaian nationals caught in the wave of renewed hostility and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
A total of about 300 evacuees were on board the initial flight and were received on arrival by senior government officials, including Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah who led the official welcome at the airport.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablkakwa had earlier explained that the support package is part of immediate humanitarian assistance, while government prepares a broader reintegration plan.
This is expected to include financial support, business registration assistance, and livelihood programmes to help the evacuees restart their lives in Ghana.
The evacuation is being coordinated through Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following growing concern over the safety of Ghanaian communities abroad.
Authorities had earlier signalled plans for the evacuation after reports of increased intimidation and sporadic attacks on foreign nationals, prompting many Ghanaians to register for assistance to return home.
Government says further batches are expected in the coming days as the exercise continues.
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