Debrah, Ablakwa Assure Ghanaian Evacuees From South Africa of Full Government Support

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa have reassured Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa of government’s full support as they return home following renewed xenophobic tensions.

The first group of evacuees arrived safely in Accra on Wednesday, May 27, as part of a coordinated evacuation effort led by Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

A government delegation headed by the Chief of Staff and the Foreign Minister was present at the airport to welcome the returnees and facilitate their reintegration process.

Addressing the evacuees, Julius Debrah encouraged them to remain positive despite the circumstances that led to their return.

“Most importantly, we want to encourage our brothers and sisters that once they are back, they should be very optimistic and hopeful about the future,” he said.

“Sometimes God has different ways of opening new doors for us. As a nation, we shall always stand by our people, no matter where you find yourself. Be encouraged, and believe that it shall all end well.”

For his part, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa assured the returnees of comprehensive state support, including medical care, counselling services, and financial assistance.

“Today’s welcome ceremony is fully packed. You are going to receive psychosocial support. We have psychologists, medical doctors and nurses,” he stated.

He further revealed that President John Dramani Mahama had approved special support packages for the evacuees, including transportation allowances to assist them in returning to their respective communities.

“President Mahama says all of you should be given two special allowances. One for transportation. There will be a transportation allowance to wherever you live, wherever you are going to,” he added.

The evacuation exercise was prompted by rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa, which have led to fear, attacks, intimidation, and destruction of property affecting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.

Government officials say the evacuation will continue in phases as more citizens are expected to be brought home, while diplomatic efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety of Ghanaians still residing abroad.