Chairman of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, has hailed the Government’s evacuation of Ghanaians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa as a strong demonstration of Ghana’s commitment to protecting its citizens wherever they may be.
According to the Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman, the swift intervention underscores a citizen-first approach to diplomacy and reflects the Government’s determination to ensure that the safety and welfare of Ghanaians remain a priority beyond the country’s borders.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Mr. Vanderpuije commended the Government for acting decisively amid growing concerns over violence and intimidation targeting foreign African nationals in parts of South Africa.
He described the evacuation exercise as evidence of responsive leadership and effective diplomatic engagement, noting that the intervention provided reassurance to Ghanaians living and working abroad.
“The Government’s response sends a powerful message that Ghanaian citizens will not be left to face crises alone, regardless of where they are in the world,” he stated.
Mr. Vanderpuije singled out the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for leading efforts to coordinate the evacuation and facilitate the safe return of affected citizens. He also applauded Ghana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, and officials of the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for their role in assisting Ghanaians during the crisis.
The Ablekuma South legislator noted that beyond the evacuation itself, Government agencies provided emergency travel documents, consular support and reintegration assistance for returnees, describing the measures as a comprehensive response to the challenges faced by those affected.
He said such interventions reinforce confidence in Ghana’s diplomatic institutions and demonstrate the country’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity and wellbeing of its citizens abroad.
Mr. Vanderpuije further assured the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the full support of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in advancing policies and initiatives aimed at protecting Ghanaians overseas and strengthening Ghana’s international relations.
While commending the Government’s actions, he expressed concern over the recurring incidents of xenophobic violence in South Africa and their impact on African migrants.
He urged the African Union, regional leaders and governments across the continent to intensify efforts to address the causes of xenophobia and promote peaceful coexistence among African peoples.
According to him, xenophobic attacks threaten the vision of African integration and undermine decades of efforts to foster Pan-African unity and solidarity.
“Africa’s future must be built on mutual respect, tolerance and brotherhood. Violence and discrimination against fellow Africans have no place in the continent’s development agenda,” he emphasized.
Mr. Vanderpuije also encouraged Ghanaians residing in South Africa to remain law-abiding, stay in regular contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission and adhere to safety directives issued by local authorities.
His comments come as concerns continue to mount over renewed attacks against foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting calls for stronger measures to protect migrants and uphold the values of African unity and cooperation.
