The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Ghanaian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa, citing rising xenophobic tensions and increasing insecurity in parts of the country.
In a statement, the government of Ghana noted that hostilities towards African nationals, allegedly perpetrated by anti-immigrant vigilante groups, have resulted in injuries, closure and takeover of businesses, looting, and loss of property.
“The Government of Ghana hereby advises Ghanaian nationals to exercise extreme caution in their travel plans and avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice,” the statement read.
The government further called on South African security authorities to ensure adequate protection for African nationals and enforce laws to curb xenophobic activities in line with Pan-African ideals.
“In the meantime, the Government of the Republic of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration,” it added.
The Ministry also urged Ghanaians in South Africa to remain in close contact with the Ghana High Commission, as evacuation and support measures continue to be rolled out. The first batch of 300 Ghanaians has already been evacuated from South African territory as part of ongoing emergency response efforts.
The High Commissioner of South Africa to Ghana has also been engaged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the escalation of tensions, as diplomatic pressure mounts over the protection of African migrants.
On the regional front, Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union to intervene and address the recurring xenophobic attacks. The petition seeks to place the matter on the agenda of the upcoming AU coordination meetings, describing the situation as a threat to continental unity, free movement, and the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Meanwhile, evacuation and registration efforts remain ongoing, with more than 600 Ghanaians reportedly registered with the High Commission in South Africa expressing willingness to return home due to safety concerns. Ghana has assured that it will continue to work closely with South African authorities to safeguard its nationals and facilitate safe and orderly evacuations where necessary.
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