Only 10 Out of 300 Ghanaians Up for Evacuation Were in South Africa Legally – SA Immigration
Gladson Afriyie
Journalist
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Immigration officials at OR Tambo International Airport say just 10 of roughly 300 Ghanaians who showed up for evacuation were in South Africa legally.
Stephen van Neel, head of Immigration and Law Enforcement at Home Affairs, told reporters that widespread immigration violations were found among the group.
He noted that enforcement measures may be necessary as investigations into their status continue.“Of the 300 individuals that were on that list, we only found 10 of them to be legal in the country…
We obviously have to make sure that certain sanctions are enforced,” he said.The first group of Ghanaian returnees left South Africa on Wednesday.
According to Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, over 800 Ghanaians have signed up for voluntary repatriation amid growing safety fears and xenophobic tensions.
Quashie explained that while many were not directly attacked, they opted to return home because of concerns for their security.“The responsibility of any government is towards its citizens,” he said.
“While we have excellent relations with South Africa, we had no option but to ensure that our citizens are safe.”
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced on social media on May 18 that the government would facilitate the repatriation, which kicked off on May 25.As part of the support, the government promised transport to final destinations across Ghana, reintegration allowances, psychosocial care, and adding returnees to a database for job and startup opportunities.Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Foreign Minister Ablakwa have reassured the returnees of government backing following renewed xenophobic tensions.
The first batch arrived in Accra on Wednesday, May 27, under a coordinated effort by Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa and the Foreign Ministry.Debrah, who led the government team that received them at the airport, urged the returnees to stay hopeful despite the circumstances.
“Most importantly, we want to encourage our brothers and sisters that once they are back, they should be very optimistic and hopeful about the future,” he said. “Sometimes God has different ways of opening new doors for us. As a nation, we shall always stand by our people, no matter where you find yourself. Be encouraged, and believe that it shall all end well.”
