Mahama approves evacuation of 300 Ghanaians from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks

President John Mahama of Ghana has approved the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa after a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the decision in a statement posted on Tuesday on his X account.

He noted that the affected citizens had previously followed the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria to receive evacuation assistance.

He wrote, “His Excellency John Mahama has granted presidential approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa.

“These distressed Ghanaians had earlier complied with the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with our High Commission in Pretoria to be rescued following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks.”

Ablakwa said the government remains committed to safeguarding its citizens wherever they are.

The evacuation follows reports of harassment and attacks on foreign‑owned businesses, especially in KwaZulu‑Natal and Durban.

Other African countries have taken comparable measures.

Nigeria’s government, via Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, announced a voluntary repatriation programme for its nationals.

More than 130 Nigerians have already registered with Nigerian missions in South Africa for assistance to return home, and the figure is expected to increase.

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the creation of crisis‑notification centres to aid distressed nationals.

Saheed Oyelakin

Saheed is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over two years of experience covering metro, technology, sports, politics, and human-interest stories. He focuses on producing clear, engaging reports across diverse beats. Saheed’s work reflects hands‑on newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate and balanced journalism.

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