First Batch of Evacuated Ghanaians to Arrive from South Africa on Wednesday

Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has confirmed that the first batch of Ghanaians being evacuated from South Africa due to renewed xenophobic tensions will arrive in Accra on Wednesday, May 27.

Speaking in an interview with DW Africa on Sunday, May 24, Mr Quashie said Ghanaian and South African authorities are currently completing screening and verification processes before finalising the list of evacuees.

According to him, officials are working continuously to ensure the evacuation process is smooth and well coordinated.

“We are screening them, and once we are done, we will let them know the number of people who will be going to Ghana,” he stated.

He disclosed that the first group is expected to include between 200 and 300 Ghanaians.

Mr Quashie also explained that South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs will assist with the final arrangements ahead of departure.

“Home Affairs will set up at 10 am today for them to be able to leave on Wednesday at 6 am for Ghana,” he said.

He further revealed that the evacuation exercise will continue after the first flight, with additional flights planned to transport more Ghanaians back home.

According to him, the first aircraft is expected to carry about 300 passengers, while two more flights will follow in the coming days.

“The first group has an aircraft that will take 300, and after a few days, we will take another 300, and then there will be a third flight with another 300 to ensure that we get everyone home,” he added.

The evacuation process was initially expected to begin on May 21, but was delayed after a larger-than-expected number of Ghanaians registered to return home amid growing safety concerns.

Authorities say the phased evacuation plan is intended to ensure safety, order, and proper coordination for all affected nationals.