Immigration officials at OR Tambo International Airport have revealed that only 10 out of about 300 Ghanaians who presented themselves for evacuation were found to be in South Africa legally.
Officials in South Africa say the situation may require enforcement measures, as investigations into the status of the affected individuals continue.
“Of the 300 individuals that were on that list, we only found 10 of them to be legal in the country…We obviously have to make sure that certain sanctions are enforced,” Home Affairs Immigration and Law Enforcement head Stephen van Neel told reporters, adding, that authorities found widespread immigration violations among the group.
The first group of Ghanaian returnees departed South Africa on Wednesday. Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Mr. Benjamin Quashie confirmed that more than 800 Ghanaians had registered for voluntary repatriation, following rising concerns over safety and xenophobic tensions.
He noted that although many evacuees were not directly under attack, they chose to leave due to fears about their personal security.
“The responsibility of any government is towards its citizens,” he said.
“While we have excellent relations with South Africa, we had no option but to ensure that our citizens are safe.”
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced on social media on May 18 that the government would facilitate the repatriation exercise, which began on May 25.
To support the process, the government pledged transport assistance to destinations across Ghana, as well as reintegration allowances, psychosocial support, and inclusion of returnees in a database for job and start-up opportunities.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, and Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa have assured returning nationals of government support following renewed xenophobic tensions.
The first batch of evacuees arrived in Accra on Wednesday, May 27, as part of a government-coordinated evacuation exercise involving Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A government delegation led by the Chief of Staff and the Foreign Minister received the returnees at the airport and oversaw initial reintegration arrangements.
Addressing the evacuees, Mr. Debrah urged them to remain hopeful despite the difficult circumstances that led to their return.
“Most importantly, we want to encourage our brothers and sisters that once they are back, they should be very optimistic and hopeful about the future,” he said.
“Sometimes God has different ways of opening new doors for us. As a nation, we shall always stand by our people, no matter where you find yourself. Be encouraged, and believe that it shall all end well.”
