Ghana delays evacuation of over 800 citizens from South Africa due to logistical hurdles
Ghana announced on Thursday the postponement of its planned evacuation of more than 800 nationals living in South Africa, citing logistical and administrative constraints. The process, originally set to begin Thursday, has been delayed due to the high number of people to be repatriated and legal procedures imposed by South African authorities.
The evacuation initiative followed widespread outrage over a viral video showing Emmanuel Asamoah, a Ghanaian resident in South Africa, being attacked during recent xenophobic violence targeting foreigners.
In response, the Foreign Ministry of Ghana had announced voluntary repatriation for those wishing to leave.
However, the process has proven more complex than anticipated. In a statement Thursday, the ministry explained: “Given the number of people involved and the South African legal conditions to be met, including mandatory passenger screening, multi-institutional coordination, and flight authorizations, the planned evacuation has been delayed by a few days.”
As a result, only one Ghanaian showed up at O.R. Tambo International Airport on Thursday for the first wave.
Authorities said discussions are ongoing with South African counterparts to expedite procedures.
An agreement has already been reached to streamline administrative exchanges. Despite the setback, Accra reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its citizens, promising financial reintegration assistance and psychosocial support for evacuees.
The situation highlights persistent xenophobic tensions in South Africa, a recurring phenomenon that has led several African countries to repatriate their nationals. For the 800 Ghanaians affected, the wait to return home continues.
