The government has announced the resumption of the next phase of its humanitarian evacuation of Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting migrants in parts of the country.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, July 25, 2026, the latest evacuation exercise will begin on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with the first batch of returnees expected to arrive in Accra on Sunday and Monday, July 27.
The Ministry disclosed that approximately 1,000 Ghanaians are expected to be evacuated in phases as part of the government’s efforts to protect its citizens from the ongoing violence and insecurity in South Africa.
The exercise will initially cover Ghanaians who have already registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria and have voluntarily opted to return home with government assistance.
The Ministry stated that priority will be given to vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, persons with medical conditions, and students, in line with the government’s humanitarian policy.
Ghanaians in distress have been urged to contact the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria through 072368 1010 for assistance with travel arrangements and other consular support.
The government also expressed profound gratitude to the Ghanaian leadership of the Church of Pentecost in Pretoria and Johannesburg, as well as Global Kingdom Investment Pty. Ltd., for providing free shelter over several weeks to many stranded Ghanaians who fled their homes while awaiting evacuation.
According to the Ministry, the generosity of these institutions played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and welfare of affected Ghanaian nationals during the crisis.
The statement further indicated that the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has reactivated its emergency consular response mechanism and remains on high alert to provide assistance to all Ghanaians who wish to return home safely.
The Ministry urged Ghanaians still residing in South Africa to remain calm, avoid areas experiencing unrest, refrain from responding to provocations, and cooperate fully with officials of the High Commission to ensure the smooth implementation of the evacuation exercise.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad, the Ministry assured that every effort would be made to protect Ghanaians affected by the violence.
“The Government assures that we shall leave no Ghanaian behind in harm’s way,” the statement emphasized.
The evacuation marks the continuation of Ghana’s emergency response to the renewed wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, aimed at safeguarding the lives of Ghanaian citizens and facilitating their safe return home.
By 1960news.com
