Ghana is set to receive its first batch of citizens returning from South Africa as authorities move to evacuate nationals amid rising xenophobic tensions in parts of the country.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has confirmed that the initial group is scheduled to land in Accra on Wednesday, May 27.
He made the disclosure in an interview with DW Africa on Sunday, May 24, amid growing concerns over reported attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
Quashie said Ghanaian authorities are currently coordinating with South African officials to complete screening and verification before locking in the final list of evacuees. He added that the process is being handled “around the clock” to ensure an orderly departure.
“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.
He indicated that the first group is expected to include between 200 and 300 Ghanaians.
According to him, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs will also play a key role in final preparations before the flight departs.
“Home Affairs will set up at 10 am today for them to be able to leave on Wednesday at 6 am for Ghana,” he stated.
He further explained that the evacuation will not end with the first flight, noting that additional trips have already been arranged for more returnees in the days ahead.
Quashie said the first aircraft will carry about 300 passengers, followed by two more flights expected to transport similar numbers.
“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 said.
The evacuation was originally expected to begin on May 21 but was delayed after a higher number of Ghanaians registered for return than initially anticipated, driven by escalating safety concerns.
Officials say the phased approach is intended to maintain order, ensure safety, and allow proper coordination throughout the operation.
