The Government of Ghana has issued a warning to its citizens to refrain from non-essential travel to South Africa due to a rise in xenophobic attacks aimed at African nationals in various regions of the country.
In an official statement, the government conveyed serious concern regarding the escalating attacks reportedly perpetrated by groups identifying themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes. These incidents have led to injuries, the closure and takeover of businesses, looting, and the destruction of property owned by African migrants.
The government stated that it has already implemented several diplomatic and humanitarian measures in response to the crisis, which include lodging formal protests at the highest diplomatic levels, summoning the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa in Accra, petitioning the African Union, and facilitating the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals.
“The Government of the Republic 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 indicated.
Ghanaians currently living in South Africa have also been encouraged to maintain close communication with the Ghana High Commission to obtain consular assistance and receive timely updates regarding their safety.
The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Ghanaian citizens abroad and indicated that it would continue to collaborate with South African authorities to ensure the safe evacuation of nationals who wish to return home.
“The Government of the Republic of Ghana will continue to work with the relevant authorities of the Republic of South Africa to facilitate the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals to ensure their safety,” the statement further noted.
In the meantime, Ghana has urged the South African government to take immediate action to restore law and order and provide adequate security for African migrants and other targeted groups within its borders.
The government emphasized that safeguarding African nationals and addressing xenophobia are crucial for advancing the principles of Pan-Africanism and fostering continental integration.
“The Government of the Republic of Ghana urges the Government of the Republic of South Africa to ensure sufficient security for vulnerable groups of Africans within its borders and to implement measures that uphold law and order in alignment with the true spirit of Pan-Africanism and African unity,” the statement remarked.
This recent advisory arises amidst increasing worries regarding the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, following reports of assaults on businesses and communities owned by migrants from other African nations.
