Final Batch To Be Repatriated – Benjamin Quashie

The Government of Ghana has announced that the final phase of its voluntary repatriation exercise for Ghanaian nationals residing in South Africa will commence on July 25, 2026, marking the conclusion of a special evacuation programme introduced to assist citizens who opted to return home.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, disclosed that the exercise will cover nearly 900 registered Ghanaians who have expressed their willingness to return to Ghana amid xenophobic attacks. The operation follows earlier phases of the repatriation programme, during which hundreds of Ghanaians were successfully evacuated.

According to Mr. Quashie, the exercise has received all the necessary approvals from both the Government of Ghana and the relevant South African authorities. Preparations have been completed to ensure a smooth and orderly process, with flights expected to depart in batches until all registered beneficiaries have been transported home.

He highlighted that only individuals who completed the official registration and verification process before the deadline will be eligible to participate in the exercise. Stating that No new registrations will be accepted, as the repatriation will be conducted strictly based on the approved list of beneficiaries.

The High Commissioner urged all registered participants to remain in their respective provinces and await official communication from the Ghana High Commission regarding their departure dates, assembly points and travel arrangements. He emphasized the need for beneficiaries to cooperate fully with officials to facilitate a successful operation.

Mr. Quashie noted that the upcoming exercise represents the final stage of the government’s voluntary repatriation programme for Ghanaians in South Africa. Upon completion, the special evacuation initiative will officially come to an end, with future requests for assistance expected to be handled through the country’s regular consular services.

The repatriation programme is another part of the government’s committed efforts to safeguard the welfare of Ghanaian nationals abroad, specifically South Africa by providing voluntary assistance to those who wish to return home under safe and organized conditions.

Source: Ghana High Commission, South Africa
By: Joyce Owusu