Ghana to evacuate about 1,000 citizens from South Africa amid renewed xenophobic attacks

The Government of Ghana announced the resumption of the next phase of its evacuation programme for Ghanaian nationals living in South Africa on Saturday, July 25, following renewed xenophobic attacks. The operation is expected to facilitate the voluntary return of about 1,000 Ghanaians, with the evacuation taking place in phases. The first group of evacuees is expected to arrive in Accra on Sunday, July 26, with another batch scheduled to arrive on Monday, July 27, 2026.

The exercise will begin with Ghanaians who have already registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria and expressed willingness to return. Priority will be given to vulnerable groups, including women, children, elderly persons, individuals with medical conditions, and students. Ghanaian nationals in South Africa requiring assistance are urged to contact the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria at 0723681010. The High Commission has reactivated its emergency consular response to support nationals affected by the unrest and coordinate their safe return. The Ministry appealed to Ghanaians residing in South Africa to remain calm and avoid areas experiencing unrest.