Government Urges Ghanaians in South Africa to Stay Vigilant Ahead of Planned Shutdown
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Ghanaians living in or travelling to the Republic of South Africa to exercise extreme caution ahead of planned nationwide protests and a shutdown scheduled for June 30.
The Ministry issued the advisory following reports of ongoing anti African campaigns and planned public demonstrations in several parts of South Africa that could expose foreign African nationals to intimidation, violence and attacks.
According to a statement from the Ministry, the planned shutdown and an unofficial departure deadline reportedly directed at foreign African nationals by certain activist groups have heightened security concerns.
The Ministry noted, however, that the Government of South Africa has publicly stated that the deadline has no legal basis and assured that law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain public order.
It advised Ghanaians travelling to or within South Africa to maintain a high level of vigilance until the security situation improves.
The Ministry encouraged prospective travellers to reconsider non-essential travel to areas where demonstrations or public gatherings are expected. It also urged them to monitor local news and follow updates issued by the Ghana High Commission in South Africa.
Ghanaians already in South Africa have been advised to avoid protests, marches, road blockades and large public gatherings regardless of their purpose. They have also been asked to remain alert in public places such as transport hubs, shopping centres, taxi ranks and entertainment districts.
The advisory urged citizens to keep their travel documents readily available, ensure that passports, visas and permits remain valid, and carry separate copies of identification documents.
The Ministry further advised against travelling after dark unless absolutely necessary. It encouraged Ghanaians to inform relatives or trusted contacts about their travel plans and maintain regular communication with family members.
It also asked citizens to limit unnecessary movement during the period of heightened tension, avoid identified protest routes and areas experiencing unrest, and keep emergency supplies, essential medication and communication devices within easy reach.
The Ministry urged anyone who experiences threats, intimidation or attacks to report the matter immediately to the South African Police Service and notify the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria.
It added that Ghanaians requiring emergency consular assistance should contact the High Commission through its official emergency telephone numbers and email address.
The Ministry reaffirmed the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the safety and welfare of Ghanaians living abroad and called on all nationals in South Africa to remain calm, law abiding and security conscious until the situation normalises.
Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD
