The first group of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa arrived safely in Accra on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, as government officially commenced a coordinated repatriation exercise in response to renewed xenophobic tensions in parts of the Southern African nation.
The evacuees, numbering 300, landed at the Accra International Airport at approximately 3:00 p.m. under an emergency evacuation programme initiated following reports of attacks, intimidation, and destruction of property targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
The returnees were received by a high-powered government delegation led by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, together with security officials and representatives of state institutions overseeing the reintegration process.
Government Activates Emergency Support Measures
The evacuation forms part of government’s broader commitment to protecting Ghanaian citizens abroad, particularly during periods of crisis.
Prior to the evacuation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that all Ghanaians willing to return home from South Africa due to the unrest would receive government assistance, assuring affected citizens that measures had been put in place to guarantee their safe return and reintegration.
According to the Ministry, government has prepared a comprehensive support package to help the evacuees settle back into life in Ghana.
Financial Assistance and Reintegration Support
As part of the intervention, returnees will receive a “Welcome Home Financial Package” intended to provide immediate relief upon arrival.
The government has also arranged transportation support to enable evacuees travel from Accra to their various hometowns and communities nationwide.
In addition, authorities announced a reintegration allowance aimed at helping beneficiaries adjust following their abrupt return from South Africa, where many had lived and worked for years before the unrest.
Psychosocial and counselling services have also been made available to assist returnees dealing with emotional distress and trauma resulting from the xenophobic attacks and displacement.
The Ministry further disclosed that all evacuees would be enrolled into a special national database to connect them with employment opportunities, skills training programmes, and possible startup support initiatives.
In its statement, the Ministry emphasized government’s commitment to the welfare of citizens abroad, noting that “We value and cherish all our citizens.”
Emotional Scenes at Airport Reception
Emotions were evident at the airport as many of the returnees expressed relief, gratitude, and uncertainty after enduring what officials described as a difficult and traumatic experience in South Africa.
Addressing the evacuees, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah encouraged them to remain optimistic despite the circumstances surrounding their return.
“Most importantly, we want to encourage our brothers and sisters that once they are back, they should be very optimistic and hopeful about the future,” he stated.
“Sometimes God has different ways of opening new doors for us. As a nation, we shall always stand by our people, no matter where you find yourself. Be encouraged, and believe that it shall all end well,” he added.
Ablakwa Details Additional Government Support
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa also reassured the evacuees of government’s continued support and outlined additional measures approved for their welfare.
According to him, the reception programme includes access to medical care, counselling, and psychosocial support services provided by professional healthcare personnel, including doctors, nurses, and psychologists.
“Today’s welcome ceremony is fully packed. You are going to receive psychosocial support. We have psychologists, medical doctors and nurses,” the Minister explained.
He further revealed that President John Dramani Mahama had approved extra financial support packages, including transportation allowances for all evacuees.
“President Mahama says all of you should be given two special allowances. One for transportation. There will be a transportation allowance to wherever you live, wherever you are going to,” he added.
More Evacuations Expected
Government officials have indicated that the evacuation exercise will continue in phases, with additional Ghanaian nationals expected to return home in the coming days as authorities continue monitoring the security situation in South Africa.
Officials also confirmed that diplomatic engagements are ongoing with South African authorities to ensure the protection of Ghanaians who remain in the country and to explore long-term solutions aimed at preventing future incidents.
The latest development follows renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has repeatedly affected foreign nationals from various African countries over the years.
For the 300 Ghanaians who returned home on Wednesday, attention now turns to rebuilding their lives, supported by what government describes as a structured national reintegration and recovery programme.
SOURCE: Newscenta/ www.ignewss.com