Foreign Affairs Minister Delays South Africa Evacuation as More Than 800 Ghanaians Register

Accra — Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a postponement of its planned evacuation exercise for Ghanaians in South Africa, citing logistical and legal requirements that must be completed before the operation proceeds.

In a press release dated May 21, 2026, the Ministry disclosed that more than 800 Ghanaians have registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria seeking evacuation following renewed xenophobic concerns.

According to the Ministry, the exercise has been deferred by a few days due to requirements including mandatory passenger screening, multi-institutional coordination, and flight permit arrangements.

The update comes after earlier reports suggested a Ghanaian national had arrived at the airport expecting a scheduled evacuation flight but found no clear arrangements in place.

The Ministry said Ghanaian and South African authorities are working together to strengthen pre-evacuation procedures to speed up the process and ensure a safe return for affected citizens.

Government officials also assured Ghanaians in South Africa that efforts remain ongoing and pledged to continue providing updates in a transparent and timely manner.