The government of Ghana has summoned South Africa’s envoy following a series of reported xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
According to a statement from Ghana’s Foreign Ministry, the move was prompted by recent cases of harassment, including an incident in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian legal resident was allegedly confronted and told to return home and “fix his country.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa raised the concerns during a meeting with South Africa’s acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, stressing that such actions undermine African unity and cooperation.
He reiterated Ghana’s historic support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle and described the attacks on law-abiding migrants as unacceptable.
The ministry also warned of rising tensions, advising Ghanaian nationals in South Africa to remain indoors for their safety amid reports of intimidation and harassment circulating on social media.
South Africa, Africa’s most industrialised economy, has long attracted migrants from across the continent. However, persistent economic challenges, including an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent, have contributed to recurring anti-migrant protests and occasional violence.
Official data from 2022 indicates that South Africa is home to about 2.4 million foreign-born residents, representing roughly four percent of its population.
Authorities are expected to continue diplomatic engagements as concerns mount over the safety of foreign nationals in the country.
