The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has evacuated a Ghanaian national, Emmanuel Asamoah, following a viral video showing him being harassed by a group of individuals in South Africa in what many have described as a xenophobic attack.
The footage, which quickly spread across social media, captured tense moments as Emmanuel Asamoah and several other foreign nationals were confronted and intimidated by individuals accusing them of taking jobs meant for locals.
The video sparked outrage among Ghanaians both at home and abroad, while also reigniting concerns about the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals living in other African countries.
The incident reflects recurring xenophobic tensions that have surfaced in parts of South Africa over the years, often linked to economic pressure and high unemployment. In this case, the attackers reportedly directed their anger at foreign nationals, blaming them for limited job opportunities.
Following the incident, officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs moved swiftly.
Speaking to the media, the Coordinating Director in charge of Political and Economic Affairs at the ministry, Harold Agyeman, confirmed that the government had facilitated Emmanuel Asamoah’s return to Ghana.
“Government is very much conscious and strongly committed to protecting our nationals abroad. And so, under the instructions of the minister, Emmanuel Asamoah has been relocated to Ghana to ensure that he is in a safe space,” he said.
He added that Ghana remains in contact with South African authorities over the matter.
“We continue to rely on the assurances that the South African government has given that they would stop this activity by their nationals, which can be threatening to the relations with other African countries.”
Mr. Agyeman stressed that protecting Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a top priority, especially in situations where their safety is threatened by hostility or violence in host countries.
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