The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that Ghana fully funded the evacuation of its nationals from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, stressing that the country did not receive financial or material assistance from the South African Government.
The clarification follows media reports indicating that South Africa is seeking reimbursement of about $18 million from several African countries for support and facilitation provided in evacuating their nationals.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Ministry said Ghana did not seek any financial or material support from South Africa to bring Ghanaian nationals back home.
It said the latest evacuation exercise has also been financed entirely by the Government of Ghana and Ghanaian partners.
The Ministry disclosed that more than 1,600 Ghanaians have been evacuated from South Africa since May 2026, with further evacuations expected to continue.
According to the Ministry, the government is also providing support to the returnees upon arrival, including reintegration funds, transport fares and other relief items to facilitate their smooth reintegration into society.
The Ministry assured Ghanaians that Ghana will not be among the countries being asked by South Africa to reimburse costs associated with the repatriation of foreign nationals.
It reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the lives and welfare of Ghanaians abroad, stating that it will continue to take timely and decisive action whenever the safety and security of its citizens are at risk, regardless of the cost involved.
The Ministry further expressed gratitude to President John Mahama and Ghanaian partners for ensuring what it described as a fully Ghanaian-funded evacuation of Ghanaian nationals from South Africa.
By: Bernard Mensah
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