Ghana Hight Commissioner Exposes The Truth About SA Evacuation

The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has clarified discrepancies in documentation relating to the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals from South Africa, attributing the errors to the incorrect recording of passport expiry dates as dates of birth.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 20, 2026, the Mission acknowledged clerical mistakes involving 15 people among the 1,964 Ghanaians evacuated from the country.

The clarification followed a JoyNews data analysis programme that raised concerns about government payments of transportation and reintegration allowances to individuals whose recorded dates of birth appeared to be in the future.

According to the High Commission, a review of its records established that the disputed dates were passport expiry dates that had been incorrectly entered into the relevant documentation.

The Mission accepted responsibility for the errors but maintained that they did not affect the identities of the individuals concerned, their participation in the evacuation exercise or their entitlement to the approved allowances.

It explained that all Ghanaians involved in the operation underwent the necessary identification, data-processing and departure procedures before being evacuated.

The High Commission further noted that administrative mistakes could occur during emergency operations, particularly when large numbers of distressed nationals had to be moved within a limited period.

As part of its response, the Mission supplied corrected personal details for the 15 affected individuals to enable the relevant records to be updated.

It also addressed questions concerning the Jibril family, comprising a mother and five children, explaining that they travelled using Emergency Travel Certificates, as indicated in the revised list accompanying the statement.

The Mission said the updated information was intended to correct the discrepancies and ensure that the public had access to accurate records of the exercise.

It also reaffirmed its support for media scrutiny, recognising the importance of journalism in promoting transparency and accountability in public administration.

However, the High Commission urged journalists and members of the public to seek clarification from official sources when inconsistencies are identified in administrative documents.

Defending the operation, the Mission said it remained proud of the efforts made to assist distressed Ghanaians and facilitate their safe return home.

The clarification comes amid growing attention to the accuracy of the evacuation records and the management of public funds used to support the returnees.

The issue has highlighted the importance of reliable documentation and proper verification procedures in government-led emergency operations.

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