Ghanaians participating in a planned repatriation exercise from South Africa risk being barred from returning to the country for up to a decade, according to Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie.
The warning comes ahead of the second phase of a repatriation programme expected to facilitate the return of nearly 700 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa this weekend.
Speaking on JoyPrime, Mr. Quarshie explained that individuals who undergo the repatriation process will have their biometric information, including fingerprints, captured by South African authorities, making them subject to immigration restrictions upon departure.
According to him, anyone repatriated under the programme who subsequently attempts to re-enter South Africa could face a mandatory 10-year ban under the country’s immigration regulations.
He urged affected individuals to carefully weigh their options and fully understand the long-term consequences before enrolling in the repatriation exercise.
The programme is being coordinated by Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa in collaboration with Ghanaian community organisations and other stakeholders, with the aim of assisting citizens who have expressed a desire to return home.
The exercise comes amid ongoing concerns over the safety and welfare of foreign nationals in South Africa, following reports of xenophobic incidents targeting migrant communities.
Mr. Quarshie noted that while the repatriation initiative provides support for Ghanaians seeking to leave South Africa, participants must recognize that the process carries significant immigration implications that could affect future travel and employment opportunities in the country.
The Ghanaian mission has therefore encouraged prospective participants to make informed decisions before committing to the programme, while continuing efforts to ensure a safe, orderly and dignified return for those choosing to come back to Ghana.
