South Africa has pledged decisive action against perpetrators of xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals after Ghana lodged a formal protest over incidents involving its citizens.
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, summoned the South African ambassador on Thursday, demanding immediate steps to curb the violence. His request followed a wave of videos circulating on social media that showed assaults and intimidation of migrants. The minister cited a specific episode in KwaZulu‑Natal where a Ghanaian man was confronted, asked to prove his legal status and ordered to leave the country.
South African authorities have denounced the attacks as unlawful and unacceptable. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia warned that looting and intimidation undermine the rule of law and the nation’s constitutional principles. Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola echoed the condemnation, stating that such acts have no place in a constitutional democracy and threaten national stability.
In response, police forces have been placed on high alert and given explicit orders to identify and arrest anyone involved in xenophobic violence. Police spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said individuals who participate in or incite the attacks will be apprehended and brought before the courts. Authorities stressed that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands, irrespective of grievances.
Community leaders, civil‑society organisations and migrant‑rights advocates have been urged to promote calm, dialogue and social cohesion. Officials called on residents to cooperate with law enforcement to prevent further unrest. Advocates note that foreigners are frequently scapegoated for South Africa’s economic challenges, a perception that continues to fuel tension.
The diplomatic exchange follows a series of xenophobic outbreaks that have plagued South Africa over the past decade, prompting periodic crackdowns and policy reviews. Ghana’s protest underscores growing regional concern about the safety of migrant workers and the broader impact of violence on diplomatic relations.
The South African government’s commitment to swift enforcement and its appeal for peaceful coexistence aim to restore confidence among foreign nationals and their home countries. Continued monitoring and collaboration with regional partners will be critical in preventing further escalation and ensuring that South Africa upholds its constitutional commitments to human dignity and equality.
