Ghana’s President, John Mahama, has granted approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa, following renewed xenophobic attacks in the country.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday via his X handle.
According to him, the affected citizens had earlier complied with the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for evacuation assistance.
He wrote, “His Excellency John Mahama has granted presidential approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa.
“These distressed Ghanaians had earlier complied with the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with our High Commission in Pretoria to be rescued following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks.”
Ablakwa added that the government remains committed to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad.
The evacuation comes as reports emerge of harassment and attacks on foreign-owned businesses, particularly in areas such as KwaZulu-Natal and Durban.
Other African nations have taken similar steps.
In response, Nigeria’s government, through Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, announced a voluntary repatriation program for its citizens.
Over 130 Nigerians have already registered with Nigerian missions in South Africa for assistance to return home, with the number expected to rise.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the establishment of crisis notification centres to support distressed nationals.
