Senior Ghanaian Miners in South Africa Seek Evacuation as Xenophobic Threats Intensify

Senior Ghanaian professionals working in South Africa’s mining sector have asked to be included in Ghana’s ongoing evacuation exercise, citing rising xenophobic tensions and warnings from their employers that authorities cannot guarantee their safety.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, disclosed the development on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, saying the affected workers — many of them senior citizens occupying strategic roles in the mining industry — had reached out through their leadership to request repatriation assistance.

The miners, who have lived and worked in South Africa for many years, cited specific warnings from their employers that they should not report to work on June 30, when a planned demonstration could put foreign nationals at heightened risk.

A Growing Evacuation Crisis

The miners request adds a new dimension to an evacuation exercise that has already brought hundreds of Ghanaians home. The first batch of 300 evacuees arrived at Accra International Airport earlier this week, with scenes of relief and emotion as families were reunited.

Quashie noted that the miners, despite their long service and senior positions, feel their contributions have not been adequately recognised by their employers. The repatriation effort was prompted by escalating anti-immigrant protests across South Africa, which have targeted foreign nationals in several provinces. Over 400 Ghanaians are expected back home by the end of this weekend.

Professional Exodus Raises Concerns

The departure of senior mining professionals from South Africa carries economic implications for both countries. Ghana’s mining sector, which has long sought to build local technical capacity, could benefit from the return of experienced engineers and managers. But the circumstances of their departure — driven by fear rather than opportunity — underscore the severity of the xenophobic crisis.

Government Response

The Ghanaian government has been coordinating the evacuation through its High Commission in Pretoria, working with airlines and security agencies to ensure safe passage for citizens wishing to return. The High Commission continues to urge Ghanaians in South Africa to register with the embassy and avoid areas of known tension.

Quashie revelations about the mining professionals suggest the crisis is affecting not just informal sector workers and street traders, but established professionals with deep roots in South Africa’s economy. The June 30 demonstration date looms as a critical juncture, with diplomatic efforts focused on ensuring the safety of remaining Ghanaian nationals.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE