Gov't postpones evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a temporary delay in the planned evacuation of Ghanaians living in South Africa following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in parts of the country. The evacuation exercise, which was scheduled to begin today, Thursday, had been postponed for a few days due to logistical and legal requirements that must be completed before the process can commence. The Ministry stated that the planned evacuation has been deferred by a few days to enable their High Commission meet these evacuation conditions.

More than 800 Ghanaians have so far registered with Ghana's High Commission in Pretoria requesting evacuation over fears for their safety amid the escalating attacks targeting foreign nationals. The delay had become necessary because of mandatory passenger screening processes, flight clearance requirements and extensive coordination between authorities in both Ghana and South Africa. Senior government officials from both countries remained actively engaged in discussions and operational arrangements aimed at ensuring the safe return of affected Ghanaian nationals. The Government assured Ghanaians in South Africa that every effort was being made to guarantee their safety and safe return home, and commended them for their remarkable understanding and patience.

The Ministry pledged to continue providing timely updates to the public as arrangements toward the evacuation exercise progress. The latest development follows growing concerns over renewed xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals, including other African migrants, have reportedly come under attack in some communities. The press release was issued in Accra on May 21, 2026.