Government defers evacuation of over 800 Ghanaians from South Africa following xenophobic attacks

News May 21, 2026

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa, originally scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 21, 2026, has been deferred by a few days.

The Government of Ghana noted that more than 800 Ghanaians have registered with the High Commission in Pretoria seeking evacuation following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks.

However, given the numbers involved and the South African legal conditions that must be met, including mandatory passenger screening, multi-institutional coordination and flight permits, the planned evacuation has been postponed to allow the High Commission to fulfil these requirements.

Ghanaian and South African authorities have agreed enhanced and more efficient pre-evacuation modalities to expedite the process. Senior government officials on both sides remain actively engaged in this important exercise.

The Government of Ghana assures nationals in South Africa that every effort is being made to ensure their safe return home.

The Government commends them for their remarkable understanding and patience.

"We shall continue to keep the public apprised in a transparent and timely manner consistent with our good governance traditions," the Ministry added.

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