The first group of Ghanaian nationals has been evacuated from South Africa amid escalating anti-immigrant protests that have left at least 12 people dead and hundreds displaced. The evacuation, coordinated by Ghana’s foreign ministry in partnership with the South African government, involved 126 citizens who arrived in Accra on a chartered flight early this morning.
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, confirmed the evacuation in a statement, thanking South African authorities for their cooperation. “The safety of our citizens remains our priority. We urge all Ghanaians in affected areas to remain calm and follow official instructions,” she said.
The unrest, which began in Johannesburg’s central business district last week, has spread to other cities including Durban and Cape Town. Protesters, largely from informal settlements, have targeted foreign-owned businesses, accusing immigrants of taking jobs and fuelling crime. The violence has drawn condemnation from the African Union and the United Nations, with Secretary-General António Guterres calling for an end to the attacks.
In London, the UK government reaffirmed its commitment to Commonwealth stability. A Foreign Office spokesperson stated: “The United Kingdom stands with all Commonwealth nations during this difficult time. We are monitoring the situation closely and remain in contact with regional partners to support de-escalation.” The statement did not specify any direct intervention but emphasised the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting vulnerable communities.
The evacuation comes as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces mounting pressure to address the root causes of the violence. In a televised address on Monday, Ramaphosa condemned the attacks but stopped short of declaring a state of emergency. “We will not tolerate lawlessness,” he said. “Those responsible for these acts will face the full might of the law.”
Analysts suggest the protests reflect deeper socioeconomic tensions in South Africa, where unemployment exceeds 30% and inequality remains among the highest in the world. The influx of migrants from other African nations has long been a flashpoint, with populist politicians often scapegoating foreigners for the country’s problems.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Joseph Ayikoi Otoo, confirmed that additional evacuations are being arranged for citizens in other hotspots. “We are working around the clock to ensure the safety of all Ghanaians. Our embassy remains operational and is providing consular assistance,” he said.
The UK’s reaffirmation of Commonwealth ties is seen as a deliberate signal of solidarity, particularly as Britain seeks to strengthen relationships with African nations post-Brexit. The Commonwealth, comprising 54 countries, has faced criticism in recent years for its perceived inaction during periods of crisis within member states.
As the situation develops, Ghanaian authorities have advised all citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice. The African Union has proposed sending a fact-finding mission to assess the situation, though no timeline has been announced.
