A group of Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa following rising anti-immigration tensions has safely arrived in Accra, according to officials from the Ghanaian government.
The evacuation followed growing fears among foreign nationals living in South Africa, especially in the city of Durban, where migrants reported threats, fear of violence, and disruptions to their businesses and daily lives.
A Ghanaian diplomat, Quashie, told the BBC News that the government had a responsibility to protect its citizens both at home and abroad. He explained that many Ghanaians in South Africa felt unsafe, unwelcome, and unable to continue their economic activities because of the rising tensions.
According to him, the Ghanaian government listened to the concerns of its citizens and decided to support their return home. He added that authorities are also working on reintegration plans to help returning migrants settle back into business activities in Ghana.
Quashie noted that some of the migrants returning from South Africa were undocumented. He said Ghana does not support illegal migration and believes assisting undocumented nationals to return home is also beneficial to South Africa’s economy and immigration system.
Analysts believe the renewed anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa may be connected to local elections expected later this year. Immigration has become a politically sensitive issue in the country, with some groups blaming foreign nationals for unemployment, crime, and pressure on public services.
South Africa has experienced deadly anti-foreigner violence in the past. In 2019, at least 12 people were killed during xenophobic attacks, while in 2008, more than 60 foreign nationals died in similar violence across the country.
Although organisers of recent protests have insisted their demonstrations were peaceful, fear has continued to spread among migrant communities. Earlier this month, the South African government condemned criminal acts targeting foreigners while also admitting the country must address concerns about illegal immigration.
In recent days, hundreds of migrants from different African countries reportedly camped outside South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs in Durban, saying they feared for their safety. Some had initially taken shelter at a police station before being relocated.
One migrant from the Democratic Republic of the Congo told local media they were seeking protection after repeated threats warning foreigners to leave South Africa before the end of June.
The situation has raised concerns among human rights groups and African leaders about the safety of migrants and the growing tension surrounding immigration in South Africa.