300 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa arrive in Accra

By: Eugene Dogbatse Atsu
Three hundred Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa due to xenophobic violence have arrived in Accra, Ghana, where they received emergency relief and government support.

The evacuees landed at Kotoka International Airport on a specially arranged flight coordinated by Ghana’s diplomatic mission and security agencies following reports of rising xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa.

Officials confirmed that the evacuation was carried out as a precautionary measure to protect Ghanaian citizens, with priority given to vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly.

At the airport, the returnees were met by government officials and personnel from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), who provided immediate humanitarian assistance such as food packs, water, and temporary accommodation arrangements.

Medical teams were also deployed to conduct health checks and offer psychological support to help the evacuees recover from the traumatic experiences they endured during the unrest.

A government representative assured the returnees of continued state support, emphasizing that efforts would be made to help them reintegrate into society and rebuild their livelihoods.

Some evacuees described moments of fear and uncertainty, saying they were forced to abandon their homes and belongings as tensions escalated. Many expressed gratitude for returning safely to Ghana despite the losses suffered.

Authorities say further evacuation flights are expected as diplomatic engagements continue with South African officials to ensure the safety of remaining Ghanaians still affected by the violence.