The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Ghana, Thando Dalamba, over recent xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
In a statement dated April 23, 2026, the ministry said the envoy was invited by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to address concerns over reported attacks in South Africa.
The ministry said 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 referenced an incident in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian national “was confronted and asked to provide proof of his legal status and further instructed to leave South Africa and ‘fix his country,’” adding that such conduct “undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals.”
According to the ministry, subsequent reports indicate rising tensions, with some foreign nationals advised to remain indoors for safety. While no casualties have been recorded in the latest incidents, the minister warned that similar occurrences in the past “had resulted in loss of lives and property,” stressing the need to prevent a recurrence.
Ablakwa also highlighted the historical ties between Ghana and South Africa, recalling Ghana’s support during the anti-apartheid struggle and the contributions of Kwame Nkrumah to South Africa’s liberation.
He emphasised that “the unprovoked harassment and attacks on law-abiding individuals are contrary to the principles of African solidarity and unity,” adding that Africans must avoid actions that threaten peaceful coexistence.
The Ghanaian government confirmed it had lodged a formal protest, calling for “immediate and effective measures to ensure the protection and safety of Ghanaian nationals in South Africa,” alongside firm assurances that such incidents would not recur.
Responding, Dalamba acknowledged the concerns, stating that the South African government “is seized with the matter and 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 reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens, stating it “will continue to engage the appropriate authorities to ensure their safety and protection.”
