Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks have successfully passed extensive security screening, with not a single individual linked to criminal activity, according to Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The successful vetting, conducted by joint security agencies of both nations, has vindicated Ghana’s reputation for law-abiding citizens and countered negative portrayals.
Context of Security Screening
The security screening took place against a backdrop of high crime rates in South Africa. In the 2022/23 financial year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) recorded over 1.8 million serious and violent crimes, a 7.7% increase from the previous year. Murder cases alone rose by 9.2% to 27,494, averaging 76 deaths daily.
While murder rates showed some signs of slowing in subsequent periods, including a notable decrease in the first half of 2026, overall violent crime levels remained unacceptably high. Officials noted an average of 58 murders per day in early 2026, positioning South Africa as a nation with one of the highest rates of violent crime globally.
Joint Screening Process and Results
South African authorities mandated a joint security screening and vetting process as a prerequisite for the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals. Minister Ablakwa explained that security agencies from both countries collaborated to verify the identities and backgrounds of all evacuees.
This process involved cross-referencing names and biometric data against South Africa’s criminal databases and wanted persons lists. “When we informed them that we were going to evacuate all of you, the South African Government told us that there would have to be a condition. Their security agencies wanted to join us in the registration, screening, and vetting process because they have a wanted list and a database they wanted to check against,” the Minister stated.
“So far, all the evacuation exercises we have done jointly with their security officials, not a single Ghanaian has been arrested. Not one Ghanaian,” Mr. Ablakwa proudly announced during the reception of the second batch of evacuees at Accra International Airport.
Vindication of Ghanaian Reputation
The Minister highlighted that the clean security record of the evacuated Ghanaians serves as concrete proof that the majority of Ghanaians residing in South Africa are diligent, law-abiding individuals pursuing legitimate opportunities. “It confirms that Ghanaians are law-abiding. Ghanaians do not foment trouble. You are not criminals as some people sought to portray you,” he told the returnees.
He commended the evacuees for their discipline, hard work, and adherence to the law, even amidst the challenging circumstances of xenophobic attacks. “You have not embarrassed us. You have not disgraced us. There is nobody, not a single person, who has been detained because the person is on a wanted list,” he added.
The Minister described this achievement as remarkable, especially considering the scale of the operation. He noted that few nations could claim a 100% clean security record for hundreds of their citizens screened by foreign authorities.
Government Support and Future Outlook
The Ghanaian government is committed to supporting the repatriated citizens through comprehensive reintegration programs. These initiatives will include assistance with employment opportunities and efforts to secure compensation for losses suffered during the attacks.
The evacuation exercise was set to conclude with the arrival of the final batch of evacuees on Sunday, bringing the total number of Ghanaians repatriated from South Africa to nearly 1,000. “As a Foreign Minister of the Republic of Ghana, I am proud of all of you. You have shown that Ghanaians are decent, law-abiding, and responsible citizens wherever they find themselves,” Mr. Ablakwa affirmed.
Implications and What to Watch Next
The successful security vetting of evacuated Ghanaians could influence future diplomatic relations and immigration policies between Ghana and South Africa. It may also bolster Ghana’s international standing and challenge prejudiced perceptions about its citizens abroad. The focus will now shift to the effectiveness of the reintegration programs and the long-term impact on the returnees’ lives. Observers will also be watching to see if this incident prompts South Africa to address the root causes of xenophobia and improve the security of foreign nationals within its borders.
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