Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has criticized South African authorities for what he described as an inadequate response to recurring xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals living in South Africa.
Speaking on the long-standing issue of xenophobia on the African continent, Mahama expressed concern over the safety of African migrants and business owners who have frequently become targets of violent attacks in parts of South Africa. According to him, authorities in the country failed to take sufficient and decisive action to prevent or quickly contain several incidents of violence directed at foreigners.
Mahama noted that many African migrants, including Ghanaians, Nigerians, Zimbabweans and other nationals, have over the years suffered intimidation, destruction of property and, in some cases, loss of life as a result of xenophobic unrest. He argued that stronger interventions by law enforcement agencies and political leaders could have helped reduce the scale and impact of the attacks.
The former President emphasized that African countries must uphold the principles of unity, cooperation and mutual respect that underpin continental integration efforts. He stressed that citizens of African nations should be able to live, work and conduct business across the continent without fear of discrimination or violence.
Mahama further called on governments across Africa to strengthen mechanisms for protecting migrants and addressing tensions that often fuel xenophobic sentiments. He warned that attacks on foreign nationals not only threaten lives and livelihoods but also undermine efforts to promote regional trade, investment and free movement under the framework of the African Union.
His remarks come amid renewed discussions about xenophobia and the treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa, where sporadic outbreaks of anti-immigrant violence have continued to attract criticism from human rights groups and African leaders.
Mahama urged African leaders to work collectively to foster tolerance and ensure that all citizens, regardless of their nationality, are protected and treated with dignity wherever they reside on the continent. He maintained that the vision of a united Africa can only be achieved when governments actively confront xenophobia and promote peaceful coexistence among all people.
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