Johannesburg: Some South Africans have taken to the streets to demand the reopening of foreign-owned businesses, following recent attacks on foreign nationals that forced many shops and factories to shut down. In a viral video circulating on social media, demonstrators expressed frustration over job losses linked to the closures. They argued that many factories and workshops are owned by foreigners, and without them, local workers are left unemployed.
According to Ghana Web, the protests coincide with Ghana's efforts to evacuate its citizens from South Africa. More than 700 Ghanaians have returned home in recent days. The second group of about 340 evacuees landed in Accra on Saturday aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight, while a third batch of 380 arrived Sunday. Addressing the returnees, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, assured them that the government would pursue compensation for businesses and properties lost during the unrest. He said legal processes were being put in place to seek redress.
On reintegration, Ablakwa announced that about 200 jobs had already been secured through the support of Ghanaian entrepreneurs and corporate institutions. Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has offered 100 jobs, while AirtelTigo and Telecel Ghana have pledged to employ some of the returnees. The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and other CEOs have also promised support to ensure smooth reintegration.