The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a Ghanaian man in South Africa during anti-immigrant protests, calling it a senseless act and urging authorities to arrest and prosecute those behind it.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the government said it received the news “with profound shock and sadness” after 40-year-old Mr. Bashiru Isak was shot dead in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Monday, June 30, 2026.
According to the ministry, Mr. Isak was killed amid demonstrations tied to renewed xenophobic violence against foreign nationals in South Africa.
“The Government of Ghana condemns, in the strongest terms, this senseless act of violence and the rising tide of xenophobia targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa.
The taking of any life is unacceptable, and those responsible must be brought to justice without delay,” the statement said.
The ministry added that, on its directive, the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has formally protested to South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
It said the High Commission has also lodged an official complaint with the South African Police Service after verifying the deceased’s identity and informing his family.Ghana is now calling for a full, transparent and fast investigation into the killing, and is urging South African authorities to ensure that those responsible are identified, arrested and prosecuted.
In addition to justice for Mr. Isak, the government said South Africa must improve security for Ghanaians and other foreigners at risk of xenophobic attacks. “We also reiterate our call on the South African authorities to ensure enhanced protection for all Ghanaian nationals in affected communities,” the statement concluded.
