Accra- Ghana has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of the South African High Commission in Accra, Mr. Thando Dalamba, over recent xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa.
The summons was called by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Thursday, 23 April 2026, to formally register the West African nation’s strong concern over widely circulated videos showing acts of intimidation and harassment against foreign nationals in South Africa.
Ablakwa specifically referenced an incident in KwaZulu-Natal Province, where a Ghanaian national who is a legal resident was confronted and demanded to produce proof of his legal status before being told to leave South Africa and “fix his country.” The minister said such conduct “undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals.” 
The minister also noted that follow-up reports suggest tensions are escalating, with foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, being advised to stay indoors for their own safety. While no fatalities or injuries have been recorded in the current round of incidents, Ablakwa recalled that similar flare-ups in the past had cost lives and destroyed property.
Ablakwa pointed to the deep historical ties between Ghana and South Africa, recalling Ghana’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle, the contributions of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and the sacrifices made during South Africa’s liberation. He said the unprovoked harassment and attacks on law-abiding Africans run contrary to the principles of African solidarity and unity, and that Africans must not engage in conduct that undermines peaceful coexistence on the continent.
The Government of Ghana formally lodged a protest and called for immediate and effective measures to protect Ghanaian nationals in South Africa, swift intervention by the relevant authorities to prevent further escalation, and firm assurances that such incidents will not be repeated.
The Acting High Commissioner acknowledged the concerns raised and indicated that the South African government is aware of the matter and is taking steps to restore calm. He added that law enforcement authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent violence and hold those involved accountable.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad and will continue engaging the appropriate authorities to ensure their safety.
