The Government of Ghana has formally appealed to the African Union to prioritise discussions on xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa at the upcoming Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in El Alamein later this month.
In a diplomatic letter addressed to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ghana described the recurring violence as an urgent continental issue that demands collective intervention from African leaders.
The communication, signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed concern over the increasing cases of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, warning that the incidents continue to endanger the lives, safety, and livelihoods of African migrants living in the country.
According to the Government, the attacks have resulted in deaths, destruction of businesses and investments, and growing insecurity among foreign nationals from across the continent.
“It is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years,” portions of the statement read.
Ghana further noted that the situation is especially painful considering the role many African countries played in supporting South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle and the country’s transition to democratic rule.
While reaffirming respect for South Africa’s sovereignty and its responsibility to maintain law and order within its borders, Ghana stressed that violence targeting African migrants contradicts the ideals of African unity and solidarity upon which the African Union was founded.
The Government argued that the continued attacks undermine Pan-Africanism and violate the principles of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. It also warned that the violence threatens the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area, particularly efforts aimed at promoting free movement, regional cooperation, and economic integration across Africa.
As part of its recommendations, Ghana urged the African Union to strengthen continental monitoring systems, establish a fact-finding mission to investigate the causes of the attacks, and support dialogue and reconciliation initiatives to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The Government also called for stronger continental unity in confronting xenophobia, insisting that no African should face discrimination or violence on African soil.
Quoting Kwame Nkrumah, the statement added that Africa’s liberation and full potential can only be realised through unity, shared dignity, and mutual respect among African peoples.
