The final batch of 342 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks has arrived safely in Accra, completing a government-led repatriation exercise involving 979 citizens.
The evacuees landed at the Accra International Airport on Sunday, marking the end of a three-phase evacuation programme coordinated by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The group was among Ghanaians affected by renewed anti-immigrant tensions and violence in parts of South Africa in recent weeks.
Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo and Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister James Gyakye Quayson were among officials who received the returnees.
Officials said the evacuees expressed gratitude for the intervention, with many praising the government for organising their safe return.
Mr Quayson described the incidents in South Africa as an “isolated case” and urged returnees to focus on reconciliation and healing rather than resentment.
He also expressed hope for renewed cooperation between South Africa and African migrant communities, calling for forgiveness in the aftermath of the unrest.
The government says all evacuees have been registered for support, including reintegration assistance, access to healthcare through the National Health Insurance Scheme, and enrolment in job and skills programmes.
Authorities had earlier organised two other evacuation flights, bringing back 297 and 340 Ghanaians respectively.
South Africa has in recent weeks seen a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, prompting several African countries to advise or assist their nationals to leave affected areas.
