Ghana has begun evacuating hundreds of its citizens from South Africa following rising xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant violence in the country.
The first batch of about 300 Ghanaians arrived in Accra on Wednesday aboard a government-arranged flight after weeks of tension and fear in parts of South Africa.
Returnees were welcomed at the airport by Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, amid emotional scenes and patriotic songs.
One of the evacuees, Victor Atsu Togbe, said life had become unbearable in South Africa.
“It has never been easy for us over the past few weeks. We thank the Ghanaian government for rescuing us,” he said.
The Ghanaian government said about 800 citizens are expected to be flown home as fears grow over attacks targeting foreigners.
Tension reportedly escalated after a viral video showing the alleged assault of a Ghanaian man sparked outrage online.
South Africa has witnessed repeated xenophobic violence in recent years, fuelled by high unemployment and anger over illegal immigration.
A citizen-led group had reportedly issued a June 30 ultimatum demanding undocumented migrants leave the country, raising fears of fresh attacks.
Authorities in South Africa said many of those evacuated had overstayed their visas, while Ghana blamed delays in immigration permit renewals for part of the crisis.
The Ghanaian government has promised financial support and counselling for returnees as they begin life afresh back home.
“We will always protect Ghanaians wherever they are,” Foreign Minister Ablakwa declared.
