The Government of Ghana has announced plans to evacuate its citizens from South Africa, with the first group of 300 nationals expected to arrive in Accra on May 21, 2026, following growing concerns about their safety and welfare.

Officials in Accra said the evacuation is part of urgent diplomatic efforts designed to safeguard Ghanaian citizens amid escalating security challenges and socio-economic tensions in South Africa.

They added that the operation is being jointly coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South African authorities, and international partners to ensure the evacuation is carried out in a safe and orderly manner.

The government reiterated that the protection of Ghanaians abroad remains a key priority of President John Mahama’s administration.

A government representative stated that the welfare and security of citizens overseas is a non-negotiable commitment of the Mahama-led government.

Although officials did not immediately specify the exact events that triggered the evacuation, diplomatic sources suggested that recent incidents affecting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa prompted the emergency response.

Authorities also confirmed that arrangements have been made for transportation, reception, and reintegration of returnees upon arrival, with additional evacuation phases to be activated if necessary depending on how the situation develops.

Further updates on subsequent batches of evacuees are expected as Ghanaian authorities continue to assess developments.

The evacuation follows presidential approval granted by President Mahama for the immediate relocation of 300 Ghanaians, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

He noted that the affected citizens had earlier registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria after complying with evacuation advisories issued by the Foreign Ministry.

Ablakwa also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all Ghanaians both within and outside the country.

The move comes amid reports of renewed xenophobic violence and attacks on foreign-owned businesses in parts of South Africa, including KwaZulu-Natal and Durban.