The first group of repatriated Ghanaians from South Africa has arrived at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, just hours after the Ghanaian government sent an emotional message wishing them a safe flight and inviting them to celebrate Eid al-Adha together.
The first batch of repatriated Ghanaians from South Africa has safely arrived at Kotoka International Airport in Accra after their flight experienced delays.
The group of about 300 citizens is part of a larger evacuation effort involving over 800 Ghanaians being brought home due to rising xenophobia concerns and anti-immigration tensions in South Africa.
They were warmly received by a high-level government delegation led by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The arrival comes just hours after the Ghanaian government issued a heartfelt public message to its citizens still in South Africa, saying: “Ghana wishes our cherished citizens a safe flight from South Africa. We cannot wait to warmly welcome you all to our beloved nation. Come let’s celebrate Eid al-Adha together. We love our citizens. For God and Country.”
The emotional tone of the government’s message, combined with the physical arrival of the first returnees, reflects Ghana’s proactive and caring approach toward its nationals during a difficult period.
Many of the returnees expressed relief upon landing, with some describing the situation in South Africa as increasingly unsafe in recent weeks due to protests and targeted threats.
This first flight is expected to be followed by additional chartered flights in the coming days as Ghana continues to facilitate the safe return of its citizens.
The Ghanaian government has reiterated its commitment to the safety and well-being of all its nationals abroad while calling for calm and protection of foreign nationals in South Africa.
As more African countries closely monitor developments in South Africa, Ghana’s combination of practical action and public reassurance is being watched as a model response to the growing regional tensions.
