Foreign Affairs caution Ghanaians against non-essential travel to South Africa 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has advised Ghanaians to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa following increasing xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in that country.  

A travel advisory issued by the MFA on Monday [June 1, 2026], said the attacks by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes had resulted in injuries, closure and takeover of businesses, looting, and loss of properties.  

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana hereby advises Ghanaian nationals to exercise extreme caution in their travel plans and avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice,” the advisory stated.  

It urged Ghanaians in South Africa to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular services.  

The Ministry said the President John Dramani Mahama Administration had taken a number of steps in response to the developments, including conveying formal protests at the highest diplomatic level, summoning the South African Acting High Commissioner in Accra and petitioning the African Union.  

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana will continue to collaborate with the relevant authorities of the Republic of South Africa to facilitate the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals to ensure their safety,” the statement said.  

The government called on the South African authorities to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and to take measures to enforce law and order.  

“In the meantime, the Government of the Republic of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration,” it said.  

The MFA reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of Ghanaians at home and abroad.

Evacuation 

Government had due to the intensity of xenophobic attacks commenced the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. 
Last Wednesday, a total of 297 Ghanaians were repatriated from South Africa due to the security and safety concerns. Another 610

Ghanaians are also expected to return later from this week onward.