JOHANNESBURG, Jun. 2 (NewsDay Live) — The Ghanaian government has ordered the emergency evacuation of its citizens from South Africa and warned against non-essential travel to the country following weeks of escalating anti-immigrant violence in several communities.
The directive comes amid growing concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals, including reports of looting, property destruction and the forced takeover of migrant-owned businesses.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration said it had launched a coordinated operation to assist citizens deemed to be at risk, working alongside South African authorities.
As part of its response, the Ghanaian government said it will:
- Mobilize resources to facilitate the evacuation of vulnerable citizens.
- Lodge formal diplomatic protests with Pretoria and summon South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner in Accra.
- Place the Ghana High Commission in South Africa on high alert to provide emergency assistance and monitor affected citizens.
- Submit a petition to the African Union seeking regional intervention over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa.
The latest unrest has been linked to anti-immigration groups, including the grassroots movement March and March, as well as Operation Dudula and other organizations that accuse foreign nationals of contributing to economic hardship, infrastructure challenges and crime.
Human rights groups and civil society organizations have condemned the attacks, while police have faced criticism over their handling of the violence. Reports indicate that some vigilante groups have issued ultimatums to foreign nationals to leave certain communities, resulting in confrontations, business closures and injuries.
The issue is expected to feature prominently at the African Union’s 8th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Egypt, where member states are set to discuss regional integration, migration and security.
In its statement, the Ghanaian government urged South Africa to restore law and order and uphold the principles of Pan-Africanism, noting the historical support many African countries provided to South African liberation movements during the apartheid era.
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The evacuation marks a significant shift in Ghana’s response, with the government prioritizing the safety of its citizens amid growing concerns over the security situation in parts of South Africa.
