A second group of 345 Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa has arrived safely at the Accra International Airport, bringing to Ghana hundreds more citizens forced to abandon their lives abroad amid rising xenophobic attacks.
The returnees touched down on Saturday, June 6, as part of an ongoing government-led repatriation exercise aimed at helping Ghanaians escape growing hostility and insecurity in South Africa.
For many of those arriving, the journey home marks the end of years spent building businesses, careers and families in South Africa. However, it also signals the beginning of a difficult transition as they seek to rebuild their lives in Ghana after leaving behind jobs, property and personal belongings.
The latest arrivals join nearly 300 evacuees who returned in the first phase of the operation on May 27. Officials say demand for repatriation has exceeded expectations, with more than 1,500 Ghanaians registering to return home due to fears over their safety.
The surge in registrations reflects mounting anxiety within the Ghanaian community in South Africa, where reports of attacks, intimidation and destruction of foreign-owned businesses have intensified in recent weeks.
Government officials have described the evacuation as a humanitarian response to protect citizens caught in a worsening situation. Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa continues to coordinate efforts to assist those seeking to leave.
While many returnees expressed relief at reaching home safely, concerns remain about their reintegration and economic future after losing sources of income abroad.
The evacuation exercise is expected to continue, with another flight carrying more than 300 Ghanaian nationals scheduled to arrive on Sunday, June 7.
The latest developments have renewed calls across Africa for stronger measures to combat xenophobia and protect the rights and safety of migrants living and working on the continent.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
