Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised concerns about South Africa’s commitment to addressing recurring xenophobic attacks, following recent incidents that have targeted foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
Speaking on the growing wave of anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa, Ablakwa said Ghana is deeply troubled by the continued attacks despite repeated assurances from South African authorities to combat xenophobia and protect migrants living in the country.
According to the Minister, the persistence of such incidents raises legitimate questions about the effectiveness of measures being implemented to prevent violence against foreign nationals and ensure their safety.
“We cannot ignore the recurring nature of these attacks. While commitments have been made over the years, the continued targeting of foreign nationals inevitably leads to questions about the level of progress being achieved,” he stated.
Ablakwa noted that Ghana and South Africa share strong diplomatic and economic ties rooted in the ideals of Pan-Africanism, making the recent developments particularly concerning. He stressed that both countries have historically championed African unity and cooperation, values that are undermined when migrants are subjected to discrimination and violence.
The Foreign Affairs Minister revealed that the Ghanaian government has been engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels to seek assurances regarding the safety and welfare of Ghanaians living and working in the country.
He emphasized that Ghana expects swift action from the South African government to identify and prosecute perpetrators of xenophobic attacks while implementing stronger preventive measures to protect vulnerable communities.
Ablakwa also highlighted Ghana’s long-standing tradition of hospitality towards foreign nationals, pointing out that thousands of South Africans continue to visit Ghana each year for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges.
He warned that xenophobia poses a threat not only to human lives but also to regional integration, trade, and investment across the continent.
“Africa’s future depends on collaboration, free movement, and mutual respect among its people. Xenophobic violence weakens these ideals and damages the progress we have made toward continental unity,” he said.
The Minister further called on African leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens to unite against xenophobia and promote tolerance, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence.
His remarks come amid renewed international condemnation of attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, with several governments and advocacy groups urging stronger interventions to address the root causes of xenophobic violence and prevent future outbreaks.
Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and says it will continue to closely monitor developments while engaging South African authorities to ensure the safety of all Ghanaians residing in the country.
