Some Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following attacks on foreign nationals say they are facing public stigma and humiliation after returning home, while 46 others remain in South Africa and are appealing for assistance to return to Ghana.
Michael Addo, a representative of the returnees, said criticism surrounding the reported cost of the evacuation had added to the emotional difficulties experienced by those who had already returned.
According to Addo, some returnees feel humiliated by public reactions to the expenditure and have become reluctant to seek additional support, even as they continue to deal with the consequences of their experiences in South Africa.
The situation has raised concerns about the treatment of citizens who were brought home after facing insecurity abroad. While questions have been raised about the use of public funds for the evacuation, Addo has urged Ghanaians to consider the personal circumstances of those affected and avoid subjecting them to further distress.
He also disclosed that 46 Ghanaian nationals remain in South Africa and still require assistance to return home. The group was reportedly expected to be included in earlier evacuation arrangements but has yet to complete the journey back to Ghana.
Their situation has prompted renewed appeals for support, with Addo urging the relevant authorities and the public to help ensure that those still stranded can return safely.
The appeal comes amid scrutiny of the approximately US$4.3 million reportedly spent on evacuating 1,964 Ghanaian citizens from South Africa.
Opposition lawmakers have questioned the amount involved and called for a detailed account of how the money was spent. Their concerns have placed the evacuation exercise under public and political scrutiny, particularly regarding transparency and accountability in the use of state resources.
The debate has centred on the reported expenditure, with calls for the government to explain the costs associated with transporting the returnees and providing the necessary arrangements for their return.
However, Addo has emphasised that the public discussion should not overshadow the welfare of the people affected. He thanked the government for facilitating the evacuation and providing assistance to Ghanaians who wanted to leave South Africa amid concerns over attacks on foreign nationals.
He also appealed to the public to treat the returnees with dignity and understanding as they attempt to rebuild their lives after the difficult circumstances that led to their departure.
For those who have returned, the reported stigma and humiliation may create additional barriers to seeking assistance or discussing their experiences. Addo’s concerns highlight the importance of providing support without exposing affected individuals to further embarrassment or hostility.
Meanwhile, the 46 Ghanaians who remain in South Africa face continued uncertainty as they await assistance to return home. Their appeal places renewed attention on the need for follow-up arrangements to ensure that citizens requiring evacuation support are not left behind.
The government’s handling of the evacuation expenditure is likely to remain a subject of public debate, particularly as opposition lawmakers seek greater clarity over the reported US$4.3 million cost.
For Addo, however, the immediate priorities are ensuring the safe return of the remaining Ghanaians and protecting the dignity of those who have already arrived home.
Source: Thepressradio.com
