Ghana Repatriates Citizens Amid South Africa Protests

The first group of nearly 300 Ghanaians was repatriated from South Africa to Accra on Wednesday amid ongoing anti-immigrant protests. The returnees were welcomed by Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, with patriotic songs playing at the airport.

So far, over 800 Ghanaians have registered with the Ghana High Commission for repatriation flights due to growing fears for their safety following unrest in South Africa. The protests have targeted both documented and undocumented foreign nationals, leading to violence.

Ablakwa noted that 26 individuals are currently jailed in South Africa for visa violations. The government has reiterated its promise to provide psychosocial support and financial reintegration packages for the returnees.

The situation has revived uncomfortable debates about xenophobia and migration across Africa, with local authorities in South Africa reportedly urging citizens to expel undocumented immigrants by June 30, raising fears of further violence.