The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the Acting High Commissioner of the South African High Commission in Ghana, Mr Thando Dalamba, was summoned by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over recent xenophobic incidents reported in South Africa.
The Ministry said in a press statement issued on Thursday that the objective of the summons was to formally express strong concern regarding reported acts of intimidation and harassment against foreign nationals, including Ghanaians as captured in widely circulated viral videos.
It said the Minister referenced an incident in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, where a Ghanaian national, a legal resident, was confronted and asked to provide proof of his legal status and further instructed to leave South Africa and “fix his country.” The Minister noted that such conduct undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals.
The Minister indicated that follow-up reports suggest escalating tensions, with foreign nationals, including Ghanaians who are being advised to remain indoors for their safety, noting that no fatalities or injuries have been recorded in the current instance.
He recalled that similar incidents in the past had resulted in loss of lives and property and stressed the need to avert any recurrence.”
He underscored the longstanding historical and fraternal relations between Ghana and South Africa, recalling Ghana’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle and the contributions of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, as well as the sacrifices made in the pursuit of South Africa’s liberation.
The Minister emphasised that the unprovoked harassment and attacks on law-abiding individuals are contrary to the principles of African solidarity and unity, stressing that Africans must not engage in conducts that undermine peaceful coexistence on the continent.
It said the Government of Ghana accordingly registered a formal protest and called for immediate and effective measures to ensure the protection of Ghanaian nationals in South Africa, hence a swift intervention by the relevant authorities to prevent further escalation and firm assurances that such incidents will not recur.
According to the release, the Acting High Commissioner acknowledged the concerns raised and indicated that the Government of South Africa is taking steps to restore calm as law enforcement authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent violence and hold individuals involved in the incidents accountable for their actions.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures the general public of its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaian nationals and continues to engage the appropriate authorities to ensure their safety and protection”, it said.
Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD
