The Government of Liberia has been closely monitoring the evolving security situation in the Republic of South Africa, particularly reports of actions and demonstrations targeting foreign nationals.
The Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has remained actively engaged with the Liberian community across South Africa to monitor developments, share timely information, and help ensure the safety and well-being of Liberian citizens in the wake of the situation.
Accordingly, the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC)and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have initiated a joint emergency voluntary repatriation exercise for Liberians who have expressed a desire to return home.
This intervention comes ahead of the June 30 ultimatum reportedly issued by a group of private South African protestors calling for the departure of undocumented foreign nationals from South African territory.
Of the recorded 263 Liberians currently residing in South Africa, 29 have formally requested voluntary repatriation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the LRRRC have put in place the necessary arrangements to facilitate their return to Liberia by air.
Given that most Liberians in South Africa are undocumented, the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria has already processed Emergency Travel Certificates for those to be repatriated who fall in this category. In addition, the Embassy has engaged the relevant South African Authorities to facilitate the safe departure of undocumented Liberians who may otherwise face arrest or detention under South African immigration laws.
The Ministry commends the leadership of the Liberian communities in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town for their invaluable cooperation and support to the Liberian Embassy during the Embassy’s outreach visits to the localities.
Their assistance greatly facilitated direct engagement with Liberian nationals and enabled the accurate collection of data and information essential to the Government’s response to the evolving situation.
The Government of Liberia encourages all affected Liberian nationals in South Africa to remain calm and maintain regular contact with the Liberian Embassy in Pretoria through the established communication channels.
This will help prevent misinformation and ensure the effective coordination of the Government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard their welfare and provide appropriate assistance.
The Government of Liberia remains committed to the safety, protection, and well-being of all Liberian citizens abroad and will continue to work closely with the South African authorities and other stakeholders to address the ongoing situation.
