Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has openly criticized South Africa for its treatment of African migrants, emphasizing Ghana's commitment to being a welcoming home for Africans amidst growing reports of hostility and expulsions in other nations. Speaking at the launch of Ghana's first e-Visa service portal on May 25, 2026, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana's dedication to supporting both its citizens and other Africans in need.
According to Ghana Web, President Mahama's remarks come during ongoing efforts by the Ghanaian government to evacuate some of its nationals from South Africa due to recent tensions and xenophobic incidents impacting the Ghanaian community there. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, confirmed that evacuation procedures are set to commence in the early hours of Tuesday, May 26, 2026, following discussions with South African authorities.
Ablakwa revealed that arrangements have been finalized for the safe return of the first group of evacuees to Ghana. "Fortunately, we have concluded with the South African authorities that our aircraft can come in by midnight on the 25th, so that by 5am, you set off because we don't want you to reach Ghana at night. We want to have time to take you through the process and give the necessary assistance," he stated. The evacuees are expected to arrive in Ghana by Tuesday afternoon, with Ablakwa anticipating their arrival by 3 pm.
To facilitate the returnees' reintegration, the government has devised a support package, which includes financial assistance, transportation to their home regions, and psychosocial support services. Meanwhile, the newly launched e-Visa system will allow travelers to apply for, pay for, and receive visas electronically without needing to visit a Ghanaian embassy or consulate physically. This system, targeted at African passport holders traveling to Ghana for business, eliminates visa fees and simplifies the application process.