Ghana has begun repatriating its citizens from South Africa, with the first group of about 800 registered nationals being prepared for evacuation on Wednesday morning amid rising tensions linked to anti-migrant protests.
The operation was coordinated through the Ghanaian embassy in Johannesburg, where dozens of buses transported passengers to OR Tambo International Airport in the early hours of the day.
Eyewitnesses reported a diverse group of men, women, and children arriving for departure, while a smaller group was escorted separately by police as security was tightened at the airport.
The repatriation follows a wave of protests in several South African cities, where demonstrators have called for stricter immigration enforcement and raised concerns about pressure on public services.
A group known as “March and March,” which describes itself as a citizen-led movement for immigration reform, has led the demonstrations and set a deadline of June 30 for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Ghanaian authorities said an initial batch of about 300 citizens would leave on Wednesday, while others still being processed would be flown home later.
One returning migrant, Rudolph, who had lived in South Africa for 10 years, said worsening tensions forced his decision to leave.
“It’s not comfortable for us to stay here anymore, so we have to go. I think we will find peace at home,” he said.
There are an estimated 25,000 Ghanaians living in South Africa, many engaged in small businesses and informal trade.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, said the government acted to protect citizens who felt increasingly unsafe.
He said many had reported that economic activity had stalled and that they no longer felt welcome in parts of the country.
Quashie added that Ghana had put in place a reintegration plan to support returning citizens, including assistance to restart businesses.
Analysts say the renewed anti-migrant sentiment may be linked to political tensions ahead of South Africa’s November local elections.
South Africa has experienced periodic xenophobic violence in past decades, including deadly outbreaks in 2008 and 2019.
While protest organisers insist recent demonstrations have remained peaceful, authorities have acknowledged growing pressure to address illegal immigration while preventing violence.
The South African government has condemned attacks on foreigners and reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order amid rising tensions.
