Ghana’s Foreign Minister condemns Xenophobic attacks in South Africa as betrayal of African unity

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has strongly condemned the recent wave of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, calling the violence a “betrayal” of the spirit of African solidarity.

Speaking on Thursday, April 23, 2026, after signing a memorandum of understanding between Ghana and Sierra Leone at the ministry in Accra, Mr Ablakwa expressed outrage over the targeting of fellow Africans, including Ghanaians engaged in lawful economic activities.

His remarks follow the circulation of a viral video showing the assault of Emmanuel Asamoah, a Ghanaian national, during the attacks.

“It is such a betrayal to see that we will be described as unwelcome in those videos that have gone viral,” Mr Ablakwa said. “Citizens who have not provoked any unrest, who are not fomenting trouble, who are not provocateurs, going about their lawful duties, subjected to such naked hatred, such baseless xenophobia.”

The minister stressed that African countries must uphold the principles of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect. He warned that such attacks undermine continental integration efforts and the shared goal of development.

His comments add to growing concerns over the safety of African migrants in South Africa, particularly those running small businesses and working in other legitimate sectors. Ghana has previously summoned the South African envoy over the safety of its citizens in that country.