Ghana to Evacuate 300 Citizens from South Africa After Anti-Immigrant Protests
Ghana has announced plans to evacuate 300 of its citizens from South Africa, as a result of recent protests targeting foreign nationals. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the Ghanaian president's approval for their "immediate evacuation" after "distressed" individuals registered at the embassy in Pretoria.
South African authorities have denied claims of attacks on foreign nationals, with President Cyril Ramaphosa describing the incidents as "isolated acts of criminality" that do not reflect government policy. Ramaphosa stated that South Africa would "regulate migration, secure our borders and enforce our laws." These statements follow widespread demonstrations by thousands of South Africans demanding the mass deportation of undocumented foreign nationals, citing concerns over jobs, housing, and crime.
The Ghanaian embassy in South Africa has issued an advisory urging nationals to exercise extreme caution, avoid public gatherings, and close businesses in Durban ahead of a planned protest. Both Ghana and Nigeria have formally summoned South African envoys to address the reported mistreatment of their citizens. Ghana has also engaged the African Union, requesting a discussion on the matter, which it deems a "serious risk to the safety and wellbeing" of Africans in South Africa. South Africa maintains it has "nothing to hide" and condemns the circulation of what it terms "fake videos and images" purporting to show attacks.
Other nations, including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, have also issued warnings to their citizens residing in South Africa. Official figures suggest South Africa hosts over three million foreign nationals, approximately 5% of its population, with many more believed to be undocumented. Xenophobia has been a persistent issue in the country, marked by previous deadly attacks.
