First Group of Ghanaians to Leave South Africa Wednesday Amid Xenophobic Fears

The first batch of Ghanaians being evacuated from South Africa due to fresh xenophobic tensions is scheduled to touch down in Accra on Wednesday, May 27, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has confirmed.

Speaking in a media interview on Sunday, May 24, Quashie said Ghanaian officials are working with South African authorities to screen and verify evacuees before the final passenger list is released. The move follows renewed reports of attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.

“We are screening them, and once we are done, we will let them know the number of people who will be going to Ghana,” he said, adding that officials are working “around the clock” to ensure a smooth departure.

Quashie indicated that between 200 and 300 Ghanaians will make up the first group. South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs will help finalize arrangements before takeoff.

“Home Affairs will set up at 10 am today for them to be able to leave on Wednesday at 6 am for Ghana,” he explained.

The evacuation will happen in phases. Quashie said the first aircraft will carry about 300 people, with two additional flights set to follow.

“The first group has an aircraft that will take 300, and after a few days, we will take another 300, and then there will be a third flight with another 300 to ensure that we get everyone home,” he noted.

The exercise was initially slated to begin on May 21 but was pushed back after more Ghanaians than expected registered to return, citing safety concerns.

Authorities say the phased approach is meant to keep the process orderly and safe for all affected nationals. The High Commissioner said the decision to evacuate was taken to protect Ghanaians amid the rising tension.