Xenophobic attacks: Gov’t announces support package for Ghanaians being evacuated from South Africa

The Government of Ghana has announced a comprehensive support package for citizens being evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign African nationals.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government assured affected Ghanaians that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure their safe return, protection, and smooth reintegration into society upon arrival in Ghana.

The intervention comes amid growing concerns over the safety of African migrants and foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, where recurring xenophobic violence has forced many people to flee their homes and businesses.

According to the Ministry, all Ghanaian evacuees returning from South Africa will benefit from a “Welcome Home Financial Package” intended to provide immediate relief and support during the transition period.

The government also announced transportation assistance for returnees to enable them travel from arrival points to their respective communities and destinations across the country.

In addition, authorities disclosed plans to provide a reintegration allowance aimed at helping evacuees rebuild their lives after being displaced by the attacks. Officials say the allowance will help returnees cover basic living expenses and support their resettlement process.

Recognising the emotional trauma and psychological distress caused by the violence, the Ministry stated that free psychosocial counselling and mental health support services will also be made available to affected persons.

The government further revealed that evacuees will be enrolled into a specialised national database that will connect them to employment opportunities, skills development initiatives, entrepreneurship programmes, and startup support schemes.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the measures form part of the government’s broader commitment to protecting the welfare, dignity, and safety of Ghanaians living abroad, especially during emergencies and humanitarian crises.

“We value and cherish all our citizens,” the statement emphasised.

Meanwhile, the first batch of approximately 300 Ghanaians living in South Africa is expected to arrive in Ghana on Thursday, May 21, aboard a special chartered evacuation flight arranged by the government.

Officials say additional evacuation plans may be implemented depending on the evolving security situation and the number of Ghanaians requesting assistance to return home.

The government has also urged Ghanaians in South Africa to remain calm, stay in contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission, and follow safety directives issued by local authorities and the Ghana High Commission.