Wayne Lumbasi
The Government of Ghana has formally called on the African Union to investigate rising xenophobic incidents targeting African nationals in South Africa, intensifying diplomatic pressure on Pretoria over renewed anti immigrant violence and hostility.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the growing attacks against African migrants pose a serious threat to continental unity and the safety of foreign nationals living in South Africa.
The Ghanaian government has petitioned the African Union to place the matter on the agenda of its upcoming Mid Year Coordination Meeting later this month, while also requesting the formation of a fact finding mission to assess the scale of the attacks and the response by South African authorities.
In its petition, Ghana argued that the continued targeting of African migrants undermines the spirit of Pan Africanism and contradicts regional agreements promoting unity, free movement and economic cooperation across the continent. Officials in Accra said African countries cannot remain silent while fellow Africans are subjected to intimidation, threats and violence in another member state.
The diplomatic move follows weeks of mounting tension in parts of South Africa, including Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban, where anti immigrant protests have resurfaced. Some demonstrations have reportedly targeted businesses owned by foreign nationals, while videos circulating on social media showed migrants being verbally abused and threatened. The incidents sparked concern among several African governments, many of which have urged their citizens living in South Africa to remain vigilant.
Ghana had earlier summoned South Africa’s envoy after reports emerged that a Ghanaian citizen had been subjected to xenophobic abuse in KwaZulu Natal. The incident added to growing outrage across the continent, with political leaders, civil society groups and activists calling on South African authorities to take stronger action against anti-immigrant violence and hate speech.
Other African nations, including Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Malawi, have also expressed concern over the situation. Nigeria confirmed that dozens of its citizens had requested repatriation following the unrest, while lawmakers in Abuja announced plans to engage South African authorities over the safety of foreign nationals.
The renewed tensions have revived memories of previous waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa, particularly the deadly 2008 attacks that left dozens dead and displaced thousands of people. Analysts say persistent unemployment, economic frustration and anti-immigrant rhetoric continue to fuel resentment toward foreign nationals, especially migrants from other African countries seeking economic opportunities in South Africa.
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