Ghana Demands Probe Into Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa Amid Rising Tensions

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a full-scale investigation into reported xenophobic incidents targeting Ghanaians in South Africa, following the circulation of a disturbing viral video.

The intervention comes after footage surfaced on social media showing a South African woman leading a group of youths to confront a Ghanaian resident, accusing him of overstaying and demanding that foreigners return to their home countries. The video, which has sparked outrage across Ghana, captures the woman expressing frustration over intra-African migration, arguing that Africans should focus on developing their own countries rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Ablakwa revealed that he had held a telephone conversation with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to address the situation. “I called him on the trending videos about Ghanaians coming under extremely disturbing xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” Ablakwa stated.

According to the Minister, the South African government has expressed concern and pledged immediate action. “The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” he noted, adding that African ambassadors in South Africa are expected to be briefed on the matter.

Ablakwa also disclosed that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, led by High Commissioner Benjamin Quarshie, has been actively engaging affected citizens and coordinating support. “I am gladdened that so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well. No Ghanaian life has been lost,” he said.

He further urged calm among Ghanaians while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad under the administration of President John Dramani Mahama. “Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama Administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad. We are determined to guarantee the protection of all citizens,” he added.

Despite the tensions, Ablakwa called for unity across the continent, cautioning against allowing isolated incidents to undermine Pan-African solidarity. “The overwhelming majority of Africans are united and share an unbreakable bond, we shall not be divided by the hatred of a few fringe elements,” he said. Meanwhile, the issue has sparked strong reactions back home, with political figures questioning the safety of Ghanaians abroad.

Solomon Owusu, Director of Communications for the United Party, has challenged the South African High Commissioner to justify the continued safety of South Africans living in Ghana amid recurring attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa. Owusu argued that while over 5,000 South Africans live peacefully in Ghana and South African businesses maintain a significant presence in the local economy, Ghanaians in South Africa continue to face hostility and violence.

His comments come as pressure mounts on authorities to move beyond diplomatic assurances. In response to the developments, the Ghanaian government has reportedly summoned the South African High Commissioner to provide clarification and assurances regarding the safety of Ghanaian nationals.

Additionally, Ghana’s diplomatic engagement with South Africa has intensified, with officials pushing for swift investigations and concrete action.

While no Ghanaian fatalities have been recorded as of April 23, 2026, affected individuals are receiving consular support, and members of the Ghanaian community in South Africa are planning peaceful protests to demand protection and justice.