In a significant diplomatic move, Ghana has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to address growing concerns over the safety of its citizens residing in South Africa. This action comes in response to increasing reports of harassment and intimidation against foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, captured in widely shared social media videos.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana issued an official statement indicating that Thando Dalamba, the South African envoy, was invited to a meeting with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on April 23, 2026. The meeting aimed to communicate Ghana’s concerns about the incidents that have sparked widespread alarm and threaten the well-being of Ghanaians living in South Africa.
This diplomatic engagement follows prior discussions between Minister Ablakwa and South Africa’s Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. During these discussions, the alarming footage showing the mistreatment of Ghanaians was a focal point, with Minister Lamola expressing his concern and confirming that investigations are underway.
The Ministry emphasized that the recent summoning of the envoy is part of broader diplomatic efforts to mitigate the escalating tensions in certain regions of South Africa, where foreign nationals have faced targeted harassment. One notable incident involved a Ghanaian legally residing in KwaZulu-Natal Province who was pressured to prove his immigration status and urged to leave the country, a situation that has been condemned by Ghana’s government as a violation of human dignity and rights.
Although no casualties have been reported in the current wave of incidents, Minister Ablakwa warned of the potential escalation into violence, recalling past episodes where similar tensions led to fatalities and property damage. He underscored the historical ties between the two nations, highlighting Ghana’s support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement as a testament to the spirit of African unity.
In response to Ghana’s formal protest, Acting High Commissioner Dalamba acknowledged the issues raised and assured that South African authorities are actively monitoring the situation to prevent any recurrence of violence. He affirmed that law enforcement agencies have been tasked with ensuring accountability and safeguarding the rights of all residents.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its commitment to continue working with relevant stakeholders to protect the interests of its citizens abroad, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among African nations.
