Ghanaian authorities have begun repatriating citizens from South Africa following growing concerns over renewed xenophobic tensions linked to recent anti-immigration protests in parts of the country.
The first group of Ghanaian nationals, part of an estimated 800 registered evacuees, began their journey back home on Wednesday morning after accepting a government-assisted repatriation offer.
Authorities say the evacuation exercise is being conducted in phases, with remaining applicants still undergoing screening before their scheduled departure at a later date.
The move follows a wave of demonstrations in South African cities, where protest groups have called for stricter enforcement against undocumented migrants, raising fears of possible renewed violence targeting foreign nationals.
One of the organising groups, the “March and March” movement, describes itself as a citizen-led campaign for immigration reform and has reportedly set a 30 June deadline for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Reports indicate that of the 300 individuals initially screened before departure, only a small number were confirmed to be legally resident in South Africa.
The repatriated citizens are expected to receive government support upon arrival in Ghana as part of ongoing reintegration arrangements.
However, concerns over the situation have been met with mixed reactions in South Africa. A leader of the March and March movement, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, has dismissed claims of widespread xenophobic attacks, arguing that reports of violence have been exaggerated.
Authorities in both countries continue to monitor the situation as diplomatic and humanitarian efforts continue to ensure the safe return of affected nationals.
