The Government of Ghana on Monday warned its citizens to avoid unnecessary trips to South Africa due to ongoing xenophobic attacks targeting individuals from mostly African countries.
A travel advisory issued by Ghana’s Foreign Ministry advised nationals to “exercise extreme caution in their plans and avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice.”
The government observed that the targeting of Africans by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes has resulted in injuries, looting, business closures and property loss.
The Mahama Administration has summoned the South African Acting High Commissioner and also petitioned the African Union, while ensuring the safety of its people. Accra urged Pretoria to provide adequate, around-the-clock security for all vulnerable foreigners within its territory and take measures to restore law and order promptly.
Last week, the Ghanaian government received the first batch of nationals evacuated from South Africa, saying the action safeguards their welfare, dignity and safety. They were received by the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and other officials.
In his remarks, Debrah reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of President John Dramani Mahama and the government to protect Ghanaians anywhere in the world. He said the administration considered the evacuation from South Africa prudent, assuring that the authorities will expedite the rehabilitation of all returnees.
Ablakwa praised stakeholders, including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the National Disaster Management Organisation, for their roles in the successful evacuation.
Each evacuee, according to the Foreign Ministry, will receive psychosocial and medical support, and a reintegration allowance, among other assistance, to help rebuild their lives.
