The first batch of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic tensions has safely arrived at the Accra International Airport aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

The arrival marks the beginning of a government-led repatriation exercise aimed at bringing home Ghanaian nationals affected by growing hostility and attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.

About 300 evacuees were on board the initial flight and were welcomed by senior government officials, including the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah.

Earlier, Mr Ablakwa explained that the support package being provided forms part of immediate humanitarian assistance for the returnees as government works on a broader reintegration programme.

According to him, the reintegration plan is expected to include financial support, business registration assistance, and livelihood programmes to help the evacuees rebuild their lives in Ghana.

The evacuation exercise is being coordinated through Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following growing concerns over the safety of Ghanaian communities living in the country.

Authorities had earlier announced plans for the evacuation after reports of increased intimidation and sporadic attacks against foreign nationals, prompting many Ghanaians to register for assistance to return home.

Government says additional batches of evacuees are expected to arrive in the coming days as the repatriation exercise continues.