In a significant diplomatic move, Ghana has summoned the South African ambassador to address a series of disturbing xenophobic incidents targeting immigrants within South Africa. This decision follows viral videos depicting harassment against Ghanaians and other foreign nationals.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed grave concern over these incidents, particularly highlighting an event in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian resident was told to leave and ‘fix his country’.
South Africa, known for its industrial prowess, is a prominent destination for both documented and undocumented workers across Africa. However, the nation grapples with a severe unemployment crisis, exceeding 30%, fueling periodic xenophobic unrest.
Firoz Cachalia, South Africa’s acting police minister, strongly condemned these acts, labeling them unlawful and contradictory to the nation’s values of dignity and equality. He emphasized that law enforcement has been directed to decisively counter such behavior.
In a recent dialogue with South Africa’s Justice Minister Ronald Lamola, Ghana secured a commitment for comprehensive investigations into the xenophobic occurrences.
Ablakwa, during his meeting with South Africa’s acting high commissioner to Ghana, Thando Dalamba, reiterated Ghana’s historical support for anti-apartheid efforts and stressed that such attacks undermine African unity.
Statistics reveal over three million foreigners reside in South Africa, comprising 5.1% of its population, with more than 63% originating from the Southern African Development Community. South Africa’s border agency reported preventing over half a million illegal entries since July 2022.
