Omanghana
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration attributed the delay to “unforeseen administrative and operational challenges.” However, diplomatic sources indicate that the postponement is closely linked to rapidly evolving security concerns on the ground as xenophobic tensions continue to escalate in parts of South Africa.
The delay has left hundreds of vulnerable Ghanaian nationals exposed amid ongoing unrest and attacks targeting foreign communities.
The suspended evacuation follows a fresh wave of attacks against immigrants and foreign-owned businesses across major South African economic centers.
Tensions reportedly intensified after controversial raids conducted by South African law enforcement agencies, local vigilante formations, and the Operation Dudula movement targeting informal settlements and businesses operated by foreign nationals.
Over recent weeks, several Ghanaian-owned shops, electronic stores, and small enterprises have allegedly been looted, vandalized, or destroyed in areas including Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Affected business owners say the attacks have caused extensive financial losses and heightened fears within migrant communities already facing economic hardship.
Community leaders and diaspora groups report that the violence has left several Ghanaian nationals seriously injured while forcing many families to flee their homes and businesses.
Displaced individuals are reportedly seeking temporary shelter in overcrowded community centers, churches, and religious facilities as uncertainty grows over when evacuation arrangements may resume.
The latest postponement has revived longstanding criticism from Ghanaian nationals in South Africa who accuse authorities of responding too slowly during periods of xenophobic unrest.
During previous waves of anti-foreigner violence in 2015 and 2019, many stranded citizens expressed dissatisfaction with what they viewed as limited diplomatic intervention and inadequate repatriation efforts compared with responses organized by countries such as Nigeria and Zimbabwe.
Some affected families say they had already sold belongings and exhausted savings in preparation for the evacuation flight, only to be left stranded after the sudden suspension.
Several displaced nationals warn that prolonged delays could place more lives at risk as hostility toward foreign communities intensifies.
Amid the uncertainty, the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has issued an urgent advisory encouraging Ghanaian nationals to take immediate safety precautions.
Citizens have been urged to remain extremely cautious, avoid known flashpoint areas, and minimize unnecessary movement — particularly during nighttime hours.
Authorities also advised traders to temporarily halt operations in volatile informal markets and unstable commercial zones until security conditions improve.
The High Commission has encouraged all Ghanaian nationals to use dedicated emergency hotlines to report threats, update authorities on their locations, and request assistance where necessary.
Officials say efforts are ongoing to resolve the logistical and administrative obstacles delaying the evacuation operation, although no new departure date has yet been announced.
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Source: Omanghana
