Ghana has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, over recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, in a move signalling rising diplomatic tension.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed strong dissatisfaction during a meeting on Thursday, April 23, condemning the incidents as unacceptable.
According to the Minister, viral videos circulating online show acts of intimidation and harassment, including a disturbing case in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian resident was reportedly confronted, asked to prove his legal status, and ordered to leave the country.
Ablakwa warned that such actions threaten the dignity and safety of law-abiding foreign nationals and risk escalating tensions.
He further revealed that the situation appears to be worsening, with some Ghanaians allegedly being advised to stay indoors for safety, although no casualties have been recorded in the current wave.
Ghana has since lodged a formal protest, urging South African authorities to take immediate steps to:
- Protect foreign nationals
- Prevent further attacks
- Provide assurances that such incidents will not recur
The Foreign Affairs Minister also reminded South Africa of Ghana’s historic support during the anti-apartheid struggle under Kwame Nkrumah, stressing that such attacks undermine African unity and longstanding bilateral relations.
In response, Acting High Commissioner Dalamba acknowledged the concerns and assured that the South African government is actively addressing the situation, with law enforcement agencies working to restore calm and hold perpetrators accountable.
Ghana’s Foreign Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, indicating that diplomatic engagements will continue until their safety is guaranteed.
