Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs,Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that government has approved the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks.

In a post shared on social media, Ablakwa said the decision was authorised by President John Dramani Mahama as part of efforts to protect citizens affected by the unrest.

“His Excellency John Mahama has granted presidential approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa,” he wrote.

According to the minister, the affected individuals had earlier complied with a directive from the Foreign Ministry to register with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria for evacuation.

The move comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, where sporadic xenophobic violence has targeted migrants, including Ghanaians.

Officials say those earmarked for evacuation are individuals who reported distress and sought assistance through official diplomatic channels.

Ablakwa emphasised that the government remains committed to protecting citizens both within Ghana and abroad.

“The Government of Ghana shall continue to safeguard the welfare of all Ghanaians home and abroad,” he stated.

Ghana’s mission in Pretoria has been coordinating registration and support efforts for nationals affected by the violence, as authorities work to facilitate their safe return.

While details of the evacuation timeline and logistics have not yet been publicly disclosed, the announcement signals a heightened response by government to the evolving situation.

Xenophobic incidents in South Africa have periodically strained relations with other African countries, prompting calls for stronger regional cooperation to address the root causes of the violence.