PRETORIA, Gauteng — As various African diplomatic missions coordinate the repatriation of their citizens from the region, the diplomatic relationship between Ghana and South Africa remains robust and free of any fallout, according to Ghanaian High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie. Speaking on the current bilateral dynamics, Quashie dispelled rumors of a diplomatic row, emphasizing the strong friendship and cooperative efforts between the two nations.
The repatriation exercise has been a highly coordinated effort involving the Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs alongside South African authorities, specifically the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority. According to Quashie, the process has been seamless, with 926 citizens successfully evacuated thus far, while additional groups remain prepared for departure. The High Commissioner emphasized that the government of Ghana prioritizes the safety and well-being of its diaspora, focusing on facilitating the return of those who voluntarily wish to go home.
While the current wave of the operation is temporarily pausing, Quashie clarified that this is due to logistical shifts rather than bilateral friction. The South African officials who assisted with the initial three repatriation flights have been deployed to Durban to aid in the evacuation of Malawian nationals. Once these officers return to Pretoria, the repatriation of the remaining Ghanaians will resume in full swing.
Addressing the heightened anxiety that surrounded the bilateral ties on June 30, Quashie firmly stated that there is no diplomatic dispute between Accra and Pretoria. He referenced recent affirmations made by the Ghanaian President in London and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterating that bilateral and multilateral business engagements remain excellent. Quashie clarified that Ghana’s stance is simply rooted in the expectation that South Africa protects foreign nationals within its borders, invoking the shared African spirit of “Ubuntu.”
“We are only being fair and being that person that is supposed to hold you accountable,” Quashie explained, noting that Ghana would expect the exact same treatment if its own government were in a similar position.
Despite the initial challenges regarding the protection of citizens, the High Commissioner expressed optimism regarding the way forward. He pointed to the statements made by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa since June 30 as clear evidence that the situation is improving, noting that the two nations are successfully navigating the matter and that relations remain top-notch.
