Hundreds of Ghanaians Return Home Amid Rising Xenophobia Fears in South Africa

Nearly 300 Ghanaian citizens have returned home after Ghana’s government organized a repatriation flight from South Africa following growing fears of renewed xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals. The flight, carrying 297 passengers from Johannesburg, landed in Accra on Wednesday as emotions ran high among returnees seeking safety and peace after weeks of uncertainty.

The repatriation effort comes in response to rising tensions in South Africa sparked by protests against illegal immigration. The demonstrations have reignited painful memories of previous xenophobic attacks that have repeatedly shaken the country over the years, leaving many African migrants fearful for their safety and future.

Ghanaian authorities say roughly 800 citizens have registered for voluntary repatriation, with additional flights expected in the coming days. Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, joined government officials at the airport in Accra to personally welcome the first group of arrivals, signaling the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during the crisis.

For many returnees, the decision to leave South Africa was not easy. Some had spent years building businesses, careers, and families there. Among them was Rudolph, a Ghanaian salon owner who had lived in South Africa for a decade. Speaking to the BBC before departure, he admitted the recent atmosphere had become unbearable.

“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.

His words reflect the fears and frustrations shared by many African migrants living in South Africa, where economic hardship, unemployment, and political pressure have often fueled anti-immigrant sentiment.

The repatriation process also faced complications. According to Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, one woman and two children were unable to board the flight due to documentation issues. South Africa’s Border Management Authority stated that the woman could not prove her legal relationship to the children or provide the necessary consent documents.

As more Ghanaians prepare to leave South Africa, the situation has once again highlighted the fragile reality many migrants face across the continent. While South Africa remains one of Africa’s largest economies and a destination for opportunity seekers, recurring tensions over immigration continue to cast a shadow over the dream of African unity and free movement within the continent.