The first 300 Ghanaian nationals voluntarily leaving South Africa have departed from OR Tambo International Airport this morning.
The repatriation effort was facilitated by both the Ghanaian government and South African authorities. This comes amid rising tensions over illegal migration, with countrywide demonstrations expected on June 30th.
Many of the migrants say they came to South Africa in search of better economic opportunities. However, they now report living in fear due to growing hostility. The group passed through boarding gates earlier today after receiving assistance from their government.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, was present to oversee the boarding process. He accompanied the group to ensure everything ran smoothly.
The migrants are expected to land in Accra before returning to their respective homes. Among those departing today are individuals previously charged with immigration-related offences. A second group of migrants is expected to return to Ghana later this week.
