JOHANNESBURG — On Wednesday, the Ghanaian government commenced a voluntary repatriation program, with an initial group of approximately 300 nationals departing South Africa following a surge in anti-immigration sentiment.
At Johannesburg’s Tambo International Airport, families and travelers gathered with their belongings as police and government officials managed the departure logistics.
The decision comes in the wake of renewed protests against illegal immigration in various regions of South Africa, where systemic frustrations regarding unemployment, crime, and limited access to public services have exacerbated social tensions.
Benjamin Quashie, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, informed reporters at the airport that the number of citizens arriving for departure exceeded the original registration list. He noted that additional registration will be processed before the next scheduled flight, expected this Sunday.
Prior to the evacuation, Ghana summoned the South African ambassador to express concern over reported attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals.
Loren Landau, a political analyst and migration expert at the University of the Witwatersrand, suggested that the repatriation serves as a strategic diplomatic signal. “I believe this is a symbolic move intended to signal to South Africa that these events are politically unacceptable,” Landau stated, adding that the action extends beyond the immediate protection of the 300 individuals.
Among those repatriated were individuals previously held at the Lindela Repatriation Centre for immigration issues. In total, over 800 Ghanaians had registered for evacuation via the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria following weeks of unrest and growing insecurity among foreign residents.
Ghanaian authorities emphasized that the operation is being conducted in close coordination with South African officials to ensure the safety and well-being of all migrants involved.
While South African authorities have officially condemned violence against foreign nationals, they have simultaneously acknowledged the ongoing domestic concerns regarding illegal immigration.
Nigeria has also expressed disapproval regarding the treatment of its citizens and indicated that it is considering similar evacuation measures.
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