Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has responded to concerns from some Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa who have reportedly expressed regret over returning to Ghana.
Mr Ablakwa said the government had prioritised the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals in deciding to facilitate their return amid renewed xenophobic attacks and threats against African migrants in South Africa.
Speaking on the concerns, the Minister said reports of some returnees regretting their decision would not deter the government from its responsibility to protect Ghanaian citizens.
“I’ve seen media reports of one or two people who have said they have been evacuated back home and they are beginning to regret. If that is the thank you we get, no problem, we are not perturbed. We are going to prioritise the welfare of Ghanaians.”
The evacuation exercise, which began in May 2026, was concluded on September 4, with a total of 1,964 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa. The government said the exercise followed a resurgence of xenophobic attacks and intimidation against African nationals.
According to government figures, the evacuation cost GH¢49.72 million, covering chartered flights, air tickets, transportation, accommodation, feeding, medical care and other related expenses. Government also provided returnees with reintegration and transport allowances, medical support, National Health Insurance registration and assistance with employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry has maintained that the evacuation was voluntary and was undertaken after the government assessed the security situation and engaged affected Ghanaian nationals.
Mr Ablakwa has also said the government would continue efforts to support the returnees as they rebuild their lives in Ghana. The Ministry has further indicated that it will pursue diplomatic and legal avenues over losses suffered by Ghanaians during the attacks.
The Minister’s latest comments come as the government faces questions over the effectiveness of the evacuation and the challenges confronting some returnees as they adjust to life back home.
By: Bernard Mensah
Discussion about this post