One of the Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa has recounted his ordeal after allegedly suffering xenophobic attacks in the country.
Speaking to the media shortly after arriving in Ghana with about 300 evacuees, the returnee displayed visible bruises on his body as he narrated the violence and hardship he said he endured before being rescued by the Ghanaian government.
According to him, several of the evacuees had been living under difficult conditions, while others had reportedly been detained or stranded without assistance.
“God bless Ghanaian leaders for thinking about us and bringing us back,” he said.
“People who were in jail and those who were in great need and suffering have been brought back.”
The returnee revealed that he personally suffered physical assault during the attacks and showed journalists marks on his body, which he described as evidence of the beatings he endured.
“Personally, I suffered beatings. Look at my marks. It is God that brought me here,” he stated.
Despite his experience, he appealed for peace and reconciliation, stressing that he does not support retaliation or violence.
“I have forgiven anyone who offended me. They [South Africa] should also forgive me. I don’t believe we should retaliate,” he added.
He also commended the Ghanaian government for intervening and facilitating their safe return home.
“Our government thinks about us. We want peace, not pieces,” he said.
The evacuees were received in Ghana by government officials as part of efforts to support citizens affected by the situation in South Africa.
Authorities indicated that the returnees would receive medical care, counselling, and reintegration support to help them resettle and rebuild their lives.
