Ghana awaits South Africa's approval for second batch of Ghanaian evacuations
via GhanaWeb3 min read
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that Ghana is awaiting flight permits from South African authorities to evacuate a second group of Ghanaians following recent xenophobic attacks. All arrangements are complete, and Ghana is only waiting for approval for chartered aircraft. Ablakwa stated that the number of Ghanaians seeking evacuation continues to rise, now exceeding 900, up from an initial 600-800. President John Dramani Mahama has directed that no Ghanaian in distress should be left behind, emphasizing a foreign policy of compassion. Ablakwa also clarified that the majority of Ghanaians registered for evacuation are legal residents, refuting claims of illegal migration or criminal activity. He noted that the registration process is conducted in collaboration with South Africa's Department of Home Affairs, and no registered Ghanaian has been identified as a person of interest to South African authorities.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Must ReadGhana's President, John Dramani Mahama, stated that Ghana has become a leading example for economic recovery in Africa. He noted that many are surprised by the country's recovery from the economic challenges inherited from the previous government. President Mahama mentioned that during spring meetings, leaders from other countries are encouraged to learn from Ghana's approach. He indicated that the macro economy is stable and all macro indicators are moving in a positive direction. He further stated that Ghana is now seen as a "poster boy" for economic recovery globally, with other African nations being advised to study Ghana's methods at World Bank and IMF spring meetings. President Mahama expressed that Ghanaians should be proud, not only of the economic performance but also of the progress towards the nation envisioned by its founders.
Must ReadThe Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, has clarified that the NITA Bill will not mandate all ICT professionals and technology businesses to acquire government licenses to operate. He stated that public concerns stemmed from misinterpretations of earlier drafts of the legislation. According to Sam George, the licensing requirement applies specifically to firms seeking government contracts, especially those managing sensitive public-sector technology infrastructure. He emphasized that independent software developers, website designers, and app creators working with private clients would not be affected. The minister noted that government certification is intended to ensure standards for companies entrusted with critical national digital systems.
Must ReadThe Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress NDC has issued a strong warning to party members, cautioning against early presidential campaign activities ahead of the next general election. The Council urged members to instead support the government's "Resetting Agenda" and maintain internal discipline and unity. This intervention followed an emergency closed-door meeting between the Council and President John Dramani Mahama at the Flagstaff House on Friday, May 29, 2026. Notably, the party's General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, and National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, were not present. Sources indicate that this extraordinary measure was prompted by growing concerns over a perceived breakdown in internal command and control, fueled by individuals positioning themselves to succeed President Mahama. The Council, chaired by Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, has reportedly made previous unsuccessful attempts to curb early campaign activities disguised as "thank-you tours" and health walks. One prominent aspirant reportedly walked out of Cabinet and has since boycotted meetings due to complaints about his political activities diverting attention from government business. Strategic discussions at the meeting focused on reinforcing party unity, enforcing strict internal discipline, and mobilizing grassroots support for the government's "Resetting Agenda." The Council expressed concern that early, well-funded campaigns could undermine party cohesion and distract the state from gov
President John Dramani Mahama has clarified comments made by Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo regarding sanctions for officials who approve developments on waterways. Mahama stated that officials who issue permits for buildings in areas prone to flooding will be dismissed, not merely transferred to the north, to serve as a deterrent. He explained that his minister misspoke when she suggested transfers as punishment. The President emphasized the need to hold accountable those who sign permits for structures obstructing waterways, noting that some residents blame the government for floods without considering how structures have been allowed to block natural water flow. He also defended the demolition of structures obstructing waterways as necessary to protect lives and property. This clarification follows remarks by Linda Ocloo on May 5, 2026, during a demolition exercise, where she had warned that officials issuing permits for illegal structures could face sanctions, including transfers to the north as a form of punishment.