Ghana rejects claims it owes South Africa $18m, insists evacuation of nationals was self-funded

The Government of Ghana has clarified that it will not be required to reimburse South Africa for the evacuation of its nationals, after reports emerged that the South African Government is seeking about $18 million from several African countries for support provided during the repatriation of foreign nationals.“Ghanaians can therefore be assured that under no circumstances will Ghana be listed among the countries being requested by the Government of South Africa to reimburse the cost incurred in repatriating foreign nationals,” the Ministry stated.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Ghana independently financed the evacuation of its citizens following recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.