Government launches final evacuation phase as anti-migrant violence forces more Ghanaians to return home.
The Government of Ghana has begun repatriating another 1,000 of its citizens from South Africa as anti-migrant tensions continue to affect foreign nationals in the country. Officials say the latest operation marks the final phase of Ghana’s evacuation programme, with special flights scheduled to arrive on Sunday and Monday,
According to the Ghanaian government, the evacuation was launched in response to ongoing hostility and violence targeting migrants in parts of South Africa. Authorities said the safety and well-being of Ghanaian citizens remain their top priority as the situation continues to raise concern,
More than 900 Ghanaians have already been brought back home under earlier phases of the repatriation exercise. The latest group will bring the total number of evacuated nationals to over 1,900 since the operation began,
Ghana has also announced plans to seek compensation from the South African government for citizens who reportedly lost property, businesses, and other personal belongings during the attacks. Officials say affected nationals deserve support for the losses they suffered,
In addition, Accra has petitioned the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the attacks against foreign nationals. Ghana argues that the violence could amount to crimes against humanity and is calling for international accountability,
The issue has also gained regional attention, with both Ghana and Nigeria urging the African Union to place anti-migrant violence on the agenda of its next summit. The two countries say stronger continental action is needed to protect African citizens living and working across the continent,
Reports indicate that more than 160,000 foreign nationals have left South Africa since May following waves of violent anti-immigrant protests. Many migrants have chosen to return to their home countries or relocate elsewhere because of growing security concerns,
South Africa has traditionally attracted migrants from across Africa due to its relatively stronger economy and employment opportunities. However, rising unemployment and economic challenges have fueled frustration in some communities, leading to hostility toward foreign workers,
Human rights organisations have repeatedly condemned attacks on migrants, calling on authorities to strengthen security and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. They have also urged governments to address the underlying causes of xenophobic violence,
As Ghana completes its evacuation programme, attention is expected to shift toward diplomatic efforts aimed at securing justice for affected citizens and preventing future attacks on migrants across the continent.
