Ghana Summons South African Envoy Over Xenophobic Attacks On Its Citizens

Ghana summons South African envoy after viral xenophobic attacks on its citizens, demands protection, safety guarantees and accountability from authorities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana has summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner in Accra over recent xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.

In a press release dated April 23, 2026, the ministry said the Acting High Commissioner, Mr Thando Dalamba, was invited by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to address concerns over reported attacks in South Africa.

The ministry stated that 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 cited a specific incident in KwaZulu-Natal Province 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.’” The minister noted that such behaviour “undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals.”

According to the statement, follow-up reports indicate rising tensions, with some foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, being advised to remain indoors for safety. While no deaths or injuries have been recorded in the latest case, the minister warned that similar past incidents “had resulted in loss of lives and property” and stressed the need to prevent a recurrence.

Ablakwa also highlighted the longstanding ties between Ghana and South Africa, recalling Ghana’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle and contributions of Dr 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 not engage in actions that threaten peaceful coexistence.

The government confirmed it had lodged a formal protest and called for “immediate and effective measures to ensure the protection and safety of Ghanaian nationals in South Africa,” alongside swift intervention by authorities and firm assurances that such incidents will not recur.

In response, the Acting High Commissioner acknowledged the concerns and said 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 Ghanaian citizens, stating it “will continue to engage the appropriate authorities to ensure their safety and protection.”