The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has taken responsibility for minor clerical errors affecting 15 of the 1,964 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa, following a data analysis that raised concerns about recorded dates of birth.
In a press statement dated 19 October 2026, the High Commission said its attention had been drawn to a JoyNews data analysis and reports suggesting that the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, paid reintegration and transportation allowances to persons whose dates of birth were recorded as being in the future.
The High Commission explained that the errors occurred during the transcription of passport details by its officials, resulting in passport expiry dates being mistakenly recorded as dates of birth.
It emphasised that every Ghanaian evacuated from South Africa underwent the required identification, data-processing and departure formalities prior to evacuation.
“These minor clerical errors do not invalidate the identities of the evacuees, their participation in the evacuation exercise, or the fact that they received the approved reintegration and transportation allowances,” the statement said.
The High Commission provided verified details for the 15 individuals, listing their correct dates of birth, occupations where available, passport numbers and expiry dates. It also clarified that the Jibril family, comprising six persons including a mother and five children, travelled on Emergency Travel Certificates as reflected in an amended list.
The corrected information relating to the 15 individuals has been provided in the amended list to facilitate the appropriate update of the records and ensure that the public is accurately informed.
The High Commission fully respects the important role of the media in promoting transparency and accountability and encouraged verification with the appropriate official sources whenever apparent discrepancies arise in administrative records.
It said it remained proud of its efforts and sacrifices to save the lives of Ghanaians and bring them home safely, and remained available to provide any necessary clarification.
