The Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Ghana has called for urgent and decisive state action following recent xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians in South Africa.
The caucus described the incidents as deeply troubling and warned that the safety of Ghanaian nationals abroad must be treated as a matter of national priority. In a press release, the Minority said it had followed developments with “grave concern,” citing reports of coordinated violence against foreign nationals in parts of the country, including KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, and Gauteng.
The release comes amid rising tensions linked to anti-immigration protests and economic frustrations within South Africa.
Recent reports indicate that demonstrations and anti-immigration campaigns have intensified, with some groups blaming foreign nationals for unemployment and economic hardship, despite a lack of evidence to support such claims. The Minority stressed that such narratives are dangerous and must be rejected outright.
Rising Violence and Targeted Attacks
According to the caucus, Ghanaian-owned businesses have been targeted, individuals harassed and assaulted, and access to essential services disrupted in some areas. These incidents, it said, point to a “troubling pattern of organised violence” that requires immediate attention from both governments.
A widely circulated case involving a Ghanaian national, Emmanuel Asamoah, was cited as a stark example of the situation on the ground. The Minority noted that the incident reflects a broader reality faced by many foreign nationals in South Africa. Equally concerning, the statement pointed to reports suggesting that some attacks occurred in the presence of law enforcement without effective intervention.
This, the caucus argued, raises serious questions about enforcement and accountability within the host country. South African authorities have since pledged to take action against perpetrators, stating that those involved in xenophobic violence would be identified and prosecuted.
The Minority acknowledged steps already taken by Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, including diplomatic engagement with South African authorities and the provision of consular support to affected Ghanaians. It also noted public condemnation of the attacks by Cyril Ramaphosa, describing these as necessary but insufficient responses.
“While these are necessary first steps, they must be followed by clear and decisive action.”
The caucus stressed that what is required now is measurable action, including the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators, accountability for any lapses by security agencies, and concrete measures to guarantee the safety of foreign nationals.
Calls for Stronger Ghana Government Response
On the part of the Government of Ghana, the Minority called for a firmer and more structured response. It urged immediate presidential-level engagement between President John Mahama and President Ramaphosa to secure clear commitments on protection and enforcement.
The Minority Caucus further recommended the deployment of additional consular support to assist Ghanaians on the ground, noting that many may require urgent assistance amid the ongoing tensions. Beyond bilateral engagement, the Minority called for the issue to be escalated to the African Union, stressing the need for an urgent inquiry into recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa.
“As a founding state of the OAU and custodian of the Pan-African ideal, Ghana has both the standing and the obligation to press this matter.”
The caucus also urged the government to work with ECOWAS partners to present a unified regional response. The Minority emphasised the need for concrete assurances from South African authorities, including confirmed arrests, clear prosecutorial steps, and a practical protection plan for foreign nationals.
It also called for consideration of compensation for victims who have suffered losses as a result of the attacks, particularly those whose businesses have been destroyed or disrupted. Analysts note that xenophobic violence in South Africa has often been linked to economic pressures and high unemployment, with foreign nationals frequently scapegoated despite contributing to local economies
Appeal to Ghanaians in South Africa
The caucus urged Ghanaians currently living in South Africa to exercise caution and remain in close contact with Ghana’s diplomatic mission.
“Your safety is of paramount importance, and this matter will continue to receive the attention it demands.”
This aligns with earlier advisories issued by Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria, which encouraged nationals to remain vigilant, avoid protest areas, and prioritise personal safety amid planned demonstrations.
Ghanaians living in South Africa urged to take caution and stay safe
The Minority concluded by stressing that relations between African nations must be grounded in mutual respect and shared responsibility. It warned that xenophobic violence undermines the principles of unity and cooperation that underpin the continent’s development.
“The ties between African nations are built on mutual respect and shared responsibility. Those principles must be upheld in practice.