Ghana denies South Africa reimbursement claims for citizen evacuations

The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that the government and its partners fully funded the evacuation of more than 1,600 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa since May 2026. This statement follows reports that the South African government is seeking approximately $18 million in reimbursements from several African nations, including Malawi, Ethiopia, and Nigeria, to cover costs related to the repatriation of over 80,000 immigrants following xenophobic violence.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that Ghana did not request any financial or material assistance from South Africa for its repatriation efforts. The ministry noted that the evacuation process is ongoing, and returnees are being provided with reintegration funds, transport fares, and relief items upon arrival in Ghana.

Additionally, the Minister commended the Church of Pentecost for its humanitarian role during the crisis. The church provided shelter, food, and clothing to over 500 Ghanaians at its branches in Johannesburg, Pretoria West, and Kempton Park for approximately two months while they awaited government-led evacuation.