Gov’t repatriates Ghanaian harassed in South Africa over documentation

The Government of Ghana has begun the relocation of a Ghanaian national targeted in a xenophobic incident in South Africa.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that Mr. Emmanuel Asamoah, a legally resident Ghanaian in South Africa, is being evacuated following threats and harassment by a vigilante group.

The Minister shared the update in a post on X on Saturday morning, indicating that the decision was taken after direct engagement with the affected individual.

“As I announced on TV3 a while ago, the Government of Ghana is relocating Mr. Emmanuel Asamoah,” Ablakwa stated, adding that he had personally spoken to him. “He is doing well despite the incessant threats. We are taking him out of South Africa.”

The Minister also commended South African authorities for their response, particularly a statement issued by Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, which sought to reassure affected communities amid rising tensions.

Background to the incident shows that a widely circulated video captured a group of South Africans confronting a Ghanaian and other African nationals, demanding proof of legal residency.

The individuals were pressured to justify their presence and were told to return to their home countries rather than pursue opportunities abroad.

The development follows recent diplomatic engagement between the two countries. Earlier this week, Ablakwa summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, over what he described as growing xenophobic intimidation targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 23 confirmed that the Acting High Commissioner was invited for urgent discussions.

The Ministry expressed strong concern over incidents showing harassment and intimidation, warning that such actions threaten regional harmony.

Ablakwa referenced a specific case in KwaZulu-Natal Province, where a Ghanaian resident was confronted and asked to prove his legal status.

The individual was reportedly told to leave South Africa and “fix his country,” a remark the Minister described as undermining the dignity of law-abiding migrants.

He further noted reports of escalating tensions, with some foreign nationals being advised to remain indoors for safety.

Although no injuries or fatalities have been recorded, the Minister cautioned that similar past incidents had led to loss of lives and property.

Government has formally protested the situation and called for immediate measures to guarantee the safety of Ghanaians in South Africa.

Authorities say engagement with South African officials will continue as efforts are made to protect citizens abroad and maintain strong bilateral relations.