Government Voluntarily Repatriate Liberians Amid Security Concerns in South Africa
June 30, 2026
Monrovia: The Government of Liberia has launched an emergency voluntary repatriation exercise for Liberian nationals in South Africa following growing security concerns linked to reported demonstrations targeting foreign nationals.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said it has been closely monitoring the evolving security situation in South Africa, where reports indicate that foreign nationals have become the focus of protests in several communities.
According to the Ministry, the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has maintained constant engagement with Liberians across South Africa, providing timely information, monitoring developments, and working to ensure the safety and well-being of Liberian citizens.
As part of the government’s response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), has initiated a joint emergency voluntary repatriation program for Liberians who have expressed a desire to return home.
The intervention comes ahead of a reported June 30 ultimatum issued by a group of private South African protesters demanding the departure of undocumented foreign nationals from the country.
The Ministry disclosed that of the 263 Liberians currently recorded as residing in South Africa, 29 have formally requested voluntary repatriation.
Arrangements have been completed to facilitate their return to Liberia by air.Recognizing that many Liberians living in South Africa lack valid immigration documents, the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has processed Emergency Travel Certificates for those eligible for repatriation.
The Embassy has also engaged relevant South African authorities to ensure the safe departure of undocumented Liberians who could otherwise face arrest or detention under South African immigration laws.
The Ministry commended the leadership of Liberian communities in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town for their cooperation during the Embassy’s outreach efforts.
According to the statement, their support enabled government officials to directly engage Liberian nationals and collect critical information needed to coordinate the repatriation exercise.
The Government is urging all Liberians affected by the situation to remain calm and maintain regular communication with the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria through established channels. Officials say this will help prevent the spread of misinformation while ensuring effective coordination of assistance and protection efforts.
The Ministry reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s commitment to protecting the welfare and safety of Liberian citizens abroad, adding that it will continue working closely with South African authorities and other stakeholders to address the evolving situation and provide the necessary support to affected nationals.
