Okoe Vanderpuije Hails Government Over Swift Evacuation of Ghanaians From South Africa

The Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, has praised the government for what he described as a decisive and compassionate response to the crisis facing Ghanaians in South Africa, where a fresh wave of xenophobic violence has forced hundreds of foreign nationals to flee their homes and businesses.

In a statement issued on May 29, the Ablekuma South Member of Parliament commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for coordinating the evacuation exercise in collaboration with Ghana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, and officials of the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria.

“I am encouraged by the strong assurance given by the government that no Ghanaian citizen would be abandoned in moments of distress, regardless of where they may find themselves across the globe,” Mr Vanderpuije said. “This assurance reflects the true spirit of responsible governance and national solidarity.”

The evacuation follows weeks of escalating attacks targeting foreign African nationals in parts of South Africa, with reports of violence, intimidation, and property destruction directed at migrants from Ghana and other West African countries. The government had earlier issued a formal travel advisory urging Ghanaians to avoid all non-essential travel to South Africa until the security situation stabilises.

Mr Vanderpuije praised the provision of emergency travel documentation, consular assistance, and reintegration support for returning citizens, describing these measures as evidence of Ghana’s commitment to protecting the dignity and welfare of its people abroad.

As chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, he assured the ministry of the committee’s full backing in all efforts aimed at safeguarding Ghanaian citizens overseas and strengthening diplomatic engagements. He also extended Parliament’s sympathy to affected families during what he called a difficult period.

The Ablekuma South legislator used the occasion to issue a broader appeal to African leaders and the African Union, calling for intensified efforts to promote unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence across the continent.

“Africa’s strength lies in unity, brotherhood, and mutual respect,” he said. “There is therefore no place for xenophobia, intolerance, and violence against fellow Africans anywhere on the continent.”

He urged Ghanaians still residing in South Africa to remain law-abiding, stay in close contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission, and adhere strictly to safety advisories issued by authorities.

The xenophobic attacks have reignited debate across the continent about the treatment of African migrants in South Africa, a country that has faced repeated episodes of anti-immigrant violence over the past two decades. For Ghana, the crisis has tested the capacity of its consular services and the political will of its government to act swiftly when citizens face danger abroad.

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