The Government of Ghana has facilitated the safe return of Mr. Emmanuel Akowuah Asamoah, a Ghanaian national who was seen in a widely circulated video linked to recent xenophobic incidents in the Republic of South Africa. He arrived on Tuesday, 5th May, 2026 in the company of Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, His Excellency Benjamin Anani Quashie.
He was received on arrival by the Coordinating Director for Political and Economic Affairs, Ambassador Harold Agyeman and other officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Addressing the media, Ambassador Agyeman reaffirmed Government’s strong commitment to promoting the welfare of Ghanaian nationals and mentioned that following the incident involving Mr. Asamoah, immediate steps were taken on the instructions of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to relocate him to ensure his safety and to re-unite with his family.
Ambassador Agyeman conveyed Government’s deep concern about the xenophobic attacks and stated that African continent must be a space of unity and mutual respect. He added that such treatment of African nationals must be condemned. He recalled that the Honourable Minister had earlier summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Ghana to formally express Government’s concerns and noted that Ghana would continue to closely monitor developments and rely on the assurances of the South African authorities in addressing the situation.
In his remarks, His Excellency Benjamin Anani Quashie stated that the Ministry, through the High Commission has been actively engaging with South African authorities. While noting that conditions have not been fully normalized, he indicated that South African authorities have taken due note of Ghana’s concerns and working to prevent a recurrence. He commended the Honourable Minister for his swift intervention and continued commitment for the welfare of Ghanaian nationals.
His Excellency Quashie further assured that the High Commission remains fully engaged with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of Ghanaians in South Africa and added that the Mission issues regular advisory notices to the Ghanaian community, providing guidance on safe locations and cautioning against areas of potential unrest.
On his part Mr. Asamoah expressed appreciation to Government for the timely response to ensure his safety.
