Ghana Repatriates 800 Citizens from South Africa Amidst Rising Anti-Immigrant Demonstrations

Ghanaian authorities have commenced the repatriation of 800 citizens from South Africa, as a wave of anti-immigrant demonstrations continues to sweep across South African cities. The initial group of approximately 300 individuals departed from Johannesburg's OR Tambo airport early on Wednesday morning, with further departures planned.

Dozens of buses, chartered by the Ghanaian embassy, transported men, women, and children to the airport. A smaller contingent arrived in a police van, suggesting specific security considerations. Embassy and airport personnel registered all passengers, with remaining registered citizens undergoing screening for later flights.

Many departing Ghanaians cited the ongoing protests as their reason for leaving. Rudolph, a salon owner who has resided in South Africa for a decade, stated, "It's not comfortable for us to stay here anymore, so we have to go. I think we will find peace at home." He expressed concern that a 30 June deadline set by protest organisers for undocumented immigrants to leave could precipitate violence, referencing previous escalations from Durban to other provinces.

The demonstrations, organised by 'March and March' – a self-described citizen-led movement for immigration reform – allege that undocumented migrants strain public services. The South African government has acknowledged the need to address illegal immigration while condemning criminal acts against foreign nationals.

Ghanaian High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie affirmed the government's responsibility to protect its citizens abroad, stating a reintegration strategy is in place for those returning. "The government is willing to establish them into whatever business they were doing in South Africa," he noted, adding that this also aids the South African economy by addressing undocumented individuals. There are an estimated 25,000 Ghanaians living in South Africa.

Previous episodes of xenophobic violence have resulted in fatalities, with 62 foreign nationals killed in 2008 and at least 12 in 2019. Analysts suggest the resurgence of anti-migrant sentiment may be influenced by local elections scheduled for November.