Ghana evacuates citizens amid concerns over attacks in South Africa
Accra, May 28
The Ghanaian government has evacuated 300 citizens from South Africa amid concerns over xenophobic attacks.
The first batch, part of more than 800 citizens registered with the country's mission seeking assistance to return home, arrived at Accra International Airport on Wednesday.
Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who received them at the airport, said the group included 26 citizens who had been imprisoned in South Africa for visa-related offences, Xinhua news agency reported.
Ablakwa said professionals, including psychologists, medical doctors and nurses, would provide psychosocial support to the evacuees.
In addition, the government would provide transport allowances to help them return to their homes, along with a reintegration allowance to assist them in settling down in the country, the minister added.
Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff at the Presidency, expressed happiness over the arrival of the first batch and encouraged the returnees to move beyond their difficult experiences in South Africa and reintegrate into society.
Victor Atsu Togbe, one of the evacuees who had lived in South Africa for 16 years, told Xinhua that attacks on foreigners had made it difficult for them to sustain a meaningful livelihood.
"We are happy to be back home," he said.
Earlier this month, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged both citizens and foreign nationals to respect the rule of law as the government intensified efforts to address illegal migration.
In his weekly newsletter, Ramaphosa condemned recent violent protests and criminal acts targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country, saying such actions did not reflect the views of South Africans or government policy.
"These are the acts of opportunists who are exploiting the legitimate grievances, particularly those of the poor, under the false guise of 'community activism'," he said.
The development came after Ghana requested that the African Union debate what it described as "xenophobic attacks" against African nationals in South Africa during the upcoming African Union Mid-Year Coordination Summit in June.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian, I feel for these Ghanaians. We've seen similar situations with our own people in some countries like Russia or parts of the Middle East. The mention of visa-related offences is interesting – many Africans face visa issues in South Africa. Yaar, it's time African nations stand together, not tear each other apart. 🇮🇳🇬🇭
This is a humanitarian issue. The reintegration allowance and transport support is good, but are these funds sustainable for Ghana's economy? India's Vande Bharat mission during COVID was massive, but we had resources. Still, solidarity matters.
South Africa's problem with xenophobia is well-known, but blaming all South Africans is unfair. Many there are victims of poverty and poor governance. India also deals with attacks on North East people in some cities. We need empathy, not just anger. The African Union should mediate, not just debate.
Sad to see Africans fighting Africans. Reminds me of when Indians face racism abroad, like in Australia a few years ago. But Ghana's handling is good – proper coordination with psychologists and allowances. Humare yahan bhi aise system hona chahiye for our people returning from crisis zones.
I wonder if this will impact African Union relations. India has always supported African unity. But we also need to ask: why do people migrate in the first place? Economic opportunities in home countries must improve. Ghana's welcome is nice, but long-term jobs are key.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.