Pretoria, South Africa – (African Boulevard News) – After a harrowing experience, 51 South Africans who were stranded in Sudan have finally returned home. The group of evacuees arrived at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg yesterday and were greeted by a warm welcome from family members and government officials.
The group was evacuated from Sudan, after the country was hit by a wave of violence that left many foreigners stranded and in danger. One of the evacuees, Nelson Newel, described their ordeal as “traumatic,” and expressed his relief at finally being back on home soil. “It feels good to be back home in our own country,” he said.
The South African government worked tirelessly to secure the safe return of their citizens, with the assistance of the South African embassy in Sudan. In a statement released by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, they expressed their gratitude to the various government departments and officials who played a role in the successful repatriation of the South Africans.
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Lindiwe Sisulu, also expressed her relief at the safe return of the group. “We are happy to welcome our fellow South Africans back home. It is always a priority for us to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens, especially during times of crisis,” she said.
The evacuation of the South Africans is a reminder of the importance of embassy and consular services in providing much-needed assistance to citizens caught in political unrest and violence abroad. The South African government has reiterated its commitment to helping its citizens in times of crisis, and will continue to work to ensure their safe return home.
Some of the evacuees also spoke about the importance of being prepared for emergencies when travelling abroad. “It’s important to have emergency plans in place, especially when travelling to countries that are prone to political instability and violence,” said one of the repatriated South Africans.
In conclusion, the safe return of the 51 South Africans from Sudan is a testament to the importance of cooperation and collaboration between government departments and officials. It also highlights the importance of having embassy and consular services in place to assist citizens in times of crisis. May all South Africans travelling abroad be kept safe and informed, and may they always have access to the support and assistance they need.