Ghana to evacuate 300 citizens from South Africa amid anti-immigration protests

Ghana has announced plans to evacuate 300 of its citizens from South Africa following recent protests against foreign nationals in several South African cities.

Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced on Tuesday that President Nana Akufo-Addo had approved the “immediate evacuation” of the distressed Ghanaians. The individuals had registered at Ghana’s embassy in Pretoria after the foreign ministry issued an advisory warning of what it described as “the latest wave of xenophobic attacks.”

South African authorities have denied that any attacks occurred, claiming that widely circulated videos depicting violence were fabricated.

On Monday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the situation, stating that the “protests and criminal acts directed at foreign nationals” did not reflect government policy. He characterized them as “isolated acts of criminality” and reaffirmed that South Africa would “regulate migration, secure our borders and enforce our laws.”

The protests, which drew thousands of participants, have focused on opposition to illegal immigration, with demonstrators demanding the mass deportation of undocumented foreigners. Protesters argue that illegal immigration has negatively impacted local employment, housing availability, and crime rates.

Ahead of a protest planned for Wednesday in the port city of Durban, the Ghanaian embassy advised its nationals to exercise heightened caution, avoid public gatherings, and close their shops or businesses.

Both Ghana and Nigeria have recently summoned South African envoys to discuss the alleged mistreatment and harassment of their citizens. Ghana has also submitted a formal request to the African Union, urging the continental body to address the matter, which it said poses a “serious risk to the safety and wellbeing” of Africans living in South Africa.

South Africa has responded defiantly, stating it has “nothing to hide” while condemning the spread of what it called “fake videos and images.”

Other nations, including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, have also issued warnings to their citizens residing in South Africa.

Official figures indicate that South Africa hosts more than three million foreign nationals—approximately 5% of the population—though unconfirmed estimates suggest the number of undocumented immigrants is significantly higher.

Xenophobia remains a persistent issue in South Africa, periodically accompanied by deadly attacks against foreign nationals.