The Government of Ghana has postponed the planned evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks in the country.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the government said more than 800 Ghanaians have registered with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria seeking evacuation.
According to the ministry, the evacuation exercise, which was expected to begin on Thursday, has been deferred by a few days due to logistical and legal requirements that must be satisfied before the operation can proceed safely.
The statement explained that the delay was necessary because of “mandatory passenger screening, multi-institutional coordination and flight permits” required under South African regulations.
Authorities in both Ghana and South Africa are reportedly working together to streamline the evacuation process through enhanced pre-evacuation arrangements aimed at expediting the return of affected nationals.
The ministry added that senior government officials from both countries remain actively engaged in discussions surrounding the exercise.
“The Government of Ghana assures our nationals in South Africa that best efforts are being pursued to ensure their safe return home,” the statement noted, while commending affected Ghanaians for their patience and understanding.
Government also pledged to continue updating the public on developments regarding the evacuation process in a transparent and timely manner.
Story By: Eric Boateng
