Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Xenophobic Attacks: “I can never return to South Africa,” says Ghanaian man awaiting repatriation

Mr Frederick said, “People can come into your house, point a gun at you and rob you. Even in the streets, you are not safe.”

• May 24, 2026
Frederick
Frederick(Credit: people’s gazette)

A man identified only as Frederick, one of 800 Ghanaians awaiting repatriation to their home country on Wednesday, has vowed never to return to South Africa.

In a interview with eNCA on Sunday, Mr Frederick said though he came to South Africa to seek greener pastures, xenophobic attacks and insecurity in the country had 

He said, “There is no place like home. We came to this country with the intention of (seeking) greener pastures. But then, we realised that there is nothing much here for us. Coupled with rampant and constant xenophobic attacks and other things that come along with staying here, I felt it is better for me to go home.”

Asked if he would return to South Africa if xenophobic attacks end, Mr Frederick said, “Never. I can never come back to South Africa,” describing “life in Johannesburg” as a “risk.”

“Even if you are not in danger from xenophobic attacks or riots, there are a lot of things. People can come into your house, point a gun at you and rob you. Even in the streets, you are not safe,” he added.

His declaration trails efforts of Ghanaian government in facilitating the safe return of its citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks.

About 800 Ghanians are in Pretoria waiting to be returned home by their government.

For some weeks now, South Africans have unleashed attacks on citizens of other African countries in South Africa, accusing them of taking their jobs and perpetrating crimes.

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