Dozens Of Ghanaians Gather In Pretoria Ahead Of Repatriation Over Xenophobic Attacks
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Dozens of Ghanaian nationals assembled outside the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa, on Sunday ahead of a planned screening exercise for citizens seeking voluntary repatriation to Ghana amid rising xenophobic tensions.
Many of the affected citizens reportedly arrived at the diplomatic mission in groups using taxis and private vehicles, with several already waiting outside the premises before the verification exercise officially begins on Monday.
The screening process is expected to help authorities confirm the identities and travel eligibility of those who registered for evacuation under the repatriation arrangement coordinated by the Ghanaian government.
Officials disclosed that the first batch of evacuees is expected to depart South Africa on Wednesday, while additional flights may be arranged depending on the outcome of the screening and verification procedures.
The development follows renewed anti-immigrant violence and growing hostility towards African migrants in parts of South Africa, sparking fear among foreign nationals and prompting emergency responses from some African governments.
Earlier, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that more than 800 Ghanaian citizens had registered with the country’s High Commission in Pretoria requesting evacuation assistance following the recent wave of attacks.
The ministry explained that the evacuation process experienced a short delay because authorities needed time to complete mandatory procedures, including passenger screening, inter-agency coordination, and the processing of flight clearances required under South African regulations.
Ghanaian authorities also announced support measures for returning citizens, including financial assistance, transportation to different parts of the country, and reintegration packages aimed at helping evacuees settle back into society after returning home.
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