Ghana Summons South African Envoy Over Rising Xenophobic Attacks on Nationals

Ghana has summoned South Africa’s envoy over reports of xenophobic harassment targeting Ghanaian migrants, including an incident where a legal resident was allegedly told to leave and “fix his country.” The Ghanaian government raised concerns about rising tensions and urged protection for its citizens in South Africa. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stressed that the actions contradict African solidarity and Ghana’s historic support for South Africa.

Ghana has formally summoned South Africa’s diplomatic representative over a growing wave of reported xenophobic incidents targeting Ghanaian nationals living in South Africa, raising fresh concerns about the safety of African migrants in the region.
According to Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the decision follows disturbing videos circulating on social media in recent days, which appear to show Ghanaians being harassed in different parts of South Africa. One widely discussed incident reportedly took place in KwaZulu-Natal province, where a Ghanaian migrant who is said to be a legal resident was confronted by individuals and told to return to his home country and “fix his country.” The Ghanaian authorities described the incident as unacceptable and inconsistent with the treatment expected of lawful residents.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa raised the matter directly with South Africa’s acting high commissioner, Thando Dalamba, expressing Ghana’s serious concern over what it described as unprovoked harassment and intimidation of foreign nationals. He emphasised that Ghana maintains a long-standing historical relationship with South Africa, particularly noting Ghana’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.
During the meeting, Ablakwa stressed that such incidents undermine the spirit of African solidarity and regional cooperation. He noted that the treatment of law-abiding migrants runs contrary to shared continental values and could strain diplomatic relations if not urgently addressed. The Ghanaian government called for immediate measures to ensure the protection of its citizens and other foreign nationals living in South Africa.
The Ministry also warned that tensions appear to be rising in certain areas, with reports suggesting that some foreign nationals have been advised to stay indoors for their safety due to fear of possible attacks or harassment. This has heightened anxiety among migrant communities, particularly in urban areas where foreigners often live and work.
South Africa remains one of Africa’s largest destinations for migrants due to its relatively advanced economy and job opportunities. However, it has also faced repeated episodes of xenophobic sentiment over the years, often linked to economic pressure and high unemployment. Official data from 2022 indicates that there are about 2.4 million foreign-born residents in the country, making up roughly four percent of the total population.
Authorities in both countries are expected to continue diplomatic engagements aimed at de-escalating the situation, protecting affected nationals, and preventing further incidents that could strain relations between the two West and Southern African nations.