The Government of Ghana has postponed the planned evacuation of Ghanaian nationals from South Africa by a few days due to logistical arrangements and legal requirements that must be completed before the operation can begin.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government explained that more than 800 Ghanaians have registered with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria seeking evacuation following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
According to the Ministry, the evacuation, which was initially scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 21, 2026, has been temporarily deferred to allow authorities to complete “mandatory passenger screening, multi-institutional coordination and flight permits” required under South African law.
The statement noted that both Ghanaian and South African authorities are working closely to speed up the process.
“Ghanaian and South African authorities have agreed to enhanced and more efficient pre-evacuation modalities to expedite the process,” the statement said.
The government also assured affected Ghanaians that efforts are underway to guarantee their safe return home.
“The Government of Ghana assures our nationals in South Africa that best efforts are being pursued to ensure their safe return home,” the Ministry added.
Officials further commended the affected citizens for their patience and cooperation during the ongoing arrangements, while promising to keep the public updated.
“We shall continue to keep the public apprised in a transparent and timely manner consistent with our good governance traditions,” the statement concluded.
