Final evacuation of 900 Ghanaians from South Africa begins July 25, marking end of repatriation exercise

The government of Ghana is set to begin the final phase of its repatriation programme for Ghanaians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with about 900 citizens expected to return home from July 25.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, announced that the exercise would target Ghanaians who voluntarily registered to leave the country following concerns over their safety and security.

Speaking to members of the Ghanaian community in South Africa on Tuesday, July 14, Mr Quashie said the latest operation was being carried out with support from the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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He said the move was part of government’s response to the challenges faced by Ghanaian nationals affected by the attacks.

The High Commissioner disclosed that 926 Ghanaians had already been evacuated during earlier stages of the programme, leaving the remaining registered individuals to be transported during the final phase.

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According to him, the repatriation flights will be organised in stages, with flights scheduled to depart daily until all approved beneficiaries have returned to Ghana.

Mr Quashie clarified that participation in the exercise would be limited to Ghanaians who had completed the official registration and screening procedures.

He added that no additional names would be added to the list. He cautioned individuals who had not registered against visiting the High Commission in an attempt to join the evacuation, explaining that the final arrangements were based on verified lists agreed with South African authorities.

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The High Commissioner also urged those selected for the exercise to follow all instructions from the High Commission and wait for official communication before travelling from their respective provinces.

He explained that once the remaining group of about 900 Ghanaians had been brought back home, the special repatriation exercise would come to an end.

Any future requests from Ghanaians seeking assistance to return from South Africa, he added, would be addressed through the country’s normal consular support channels.