The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the death of one of the 50 Ghanaian evacuees from South Africa shortly after their arrival at the Accra International Airport on Friday, August 14, 2026. The evacuees arrived in Ghana at about 5:30 p.m. aboard an Air Tanzania flight as part of the government’s ongoing evacuation exercise.
According to the Ministry, reports from other passengers indicate that the deceased’s health condition began to deteriorate approximately 30 minutes before the aircraft touched down in Accra. A medical emergency team was on standby at the airport to receive the evacuees and immediately attended to the passenger upon arrival.
The medical team made efforts to save the passenger, but the condition reportedly worsened and the individual died at the airport. A doctor subsequently confirmed the death at 6:55 p.m., the Ministry said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is currently undertaking the necessary formalities to inform the family of the deceased about the incident. It has also arranged for the remains to be deposited at the Police Hospital, where an autopsy will be conducted.
The government had evacuated the 50 Ghanaians from South Africa as part of its efforts to facilitate their safe return to Ghana. The Ministry has not disclosed the identity of the deceased, pending formal engagement with the bereaved family.
The Ministry expressed deep sadness over the death and extended its condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. It said it will provide a further update on the incident after engaging the family and completing the necessary processes.
Story by Freedom Etsey Lavoe
