Evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa
A flight carrying nearly 300 Ghanaians departed South Africa as part of a larger group of approximately 800 individuals who registered for repatriation. This evacuation follows recent protests in South African cities targeting illegal immigration, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of xenophobic violence in the country.
Ghanaian High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie stated to the BBC that the Ghanaian government has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.
Among those who arrived early in the morning at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport were men, women, and children of various ages, transported by bus. A smaller group arrived separately in a police van and was segregated from the majority of passengers under police supervision.
All passengers were registered by embassy and airport officials prior to departure.
Quashie confirmed that the flight carried 297 Ghanaian nationals. However, a mother and her two children were not allowed to board because she lacked the children's birth certificates.
Most passengers declined to speak with journalists. Rudolph, who has resided in South Africa for ten years and operates a salon, explained his decision to leave, citing the recent protests.
"It's not comfortable for us to stay here anymore, so we have to go. I think we will find peace at home," he said.
It is estimated that around 25,000 Ghanaians live in South Africa.
Context of Protests and Immigration Issues
Protesters claim that illegal immigrants are placing undue pressure on public services and have called on the South African government to take stronger action to curb illegal immigration.
The demonstrations have been organized by a group named March and March, which identifies itself as a citizen-led movement advocating for immigration reform. The group has set a deadline of 30 June for illegal immigrants to leave South Africa.
Rudolph expressed concern that the deadline might incite violence.
"The protests started in Durban, and they've escalated to other provinces. So definitely something bad could happen," he said, adding that he would not return to South Africa.
Ghanaian High Commissioner Quashie explained the government's decision to intervene:
"The Ghanaian government listened to the plight of its citizens in South Africa, who felt that their lives were in danger, who felt like the economic activity that they were engaging in had come to a standstill, who felt unwelcome in this country.
It is the responsibility of every government to ensure that its citizens are taken care of both home and abroad."
When asked about measures to prevent illegal migration from Ghana to South Africa, Quashie mentioned a reintegration strategy for returnees.
"The government is willing to establish them into whatever business they were doing in South Africa. In a way, we're also helping the South African economy, because it's clear that some of them are undocumented," he said.
"So taking them out of here will let them know that we are not people who condone undocumented people in countries."
Historical and Political Context
Some analysts have suggested that the renewed anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa may be linked to local elections scheduled for November.
In previous incidents, xenophobic attacks have resulted in fatalities: at least 12 people were killed in 2019, and 62 foreign nationals died in 2008 during attacks across the country.
However, organizers of the recent protests have maintained that their demonstrations have been peaceful.
Earlier in the month, the South African government condemned criminal acts targeting foreigners while acknowledging the need to address illegal immigration.
Current Situation of Foreign Nationals in South Africa
Recently, dozens of foreign nationals have camped outside the South African Department of Home Affairs in Durban, expressing fear for their safety.
The group, numbering over 300 immigrants, initially sought refuge at a local police station but were relocated twice, ultimately settling outside the office responsible for refugees and asylum seekers.
A Congolese woman told the local online news outlet IOL News that they were seeking protection.
"We are being told repeatedly that on 30 June, we will be killed and that no foreigner will remain in South Africa," she said.
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