Ghana has issued a travel advisory warning to its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa following renewed reports of xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants.
Other News
The advisory was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra on Monday amid growing concerns over violence against foreign nationals.
The government said the situation has prompted diplomatic engagement, evacuation efforts, and heightened safety warnings for Ghanaian citizens in South Africa.
The advisory comes as reports of anti-immigrant violence continue to surface across parts of South Africa, with authorities alleging that foreign-owned businesses and African migrants have been targeted in several incidents.
What they are saying
The Ghanaian government says it is deeply concerned about what it describes as increasing xenophobic attacks against Africans in South Africa.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the attacks have resulted in injuries, destruction of property, looting, and disruption of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
- “The Government of the Republic of Ghana has observed with great concern, the increasing xenophobic attacks in South Africa targeted at Africans by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes which have resulted in degrees of injuries, closure and takeover of businesses, looting and loss of properties,” the statement read in part.
- It added, “The Government 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.”
Ghana also confirmed it has summoned South Africa’s acting envoy in Accra, filed formal diplomatic protests, and escalated the matter to the African Union.
More insights
The statement further revealed that evacuation processes for affected nationals are ongoing.
Ghana government says it is working closely with its diplomatic mission in South Africa to monitor developments and protect its citizens.
It has also petitioned the African Union over the reported violence and continues to urge South African authorities to strengthen protection for foreign residents.
Officials say the travel advisory remains in place until conditions improve, as regional concern grows over the safety of African migrants in South Africa.
Get up to speed
Tensions in South Africa have escalated between April and June 2026, with renewed anti-immigrant protests reported in major cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban.
- These incidents have been linked to growing frustration over unemployment, crime, and competition for economic opportunities.
- Foreign-owned shops have reportedly been looted, vandalised, and forced to shut down in affected areas.
- Some groups have allegedly issued ultimatums for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
More than 300 Ghanaians were reportedly evacuated in phases, with additional departures planned.
What you should know
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has previously linked rising xenophobic tensions to socio-economic pressures associated with illegal immigration.
He said undocumented migration places strain on public infrastructure and services, especially in already vulnerable communities. He warned that pressure on healthcare, housing, and municipal services is increasing.
- Ramaphosa noted that it also distorts the labour market by encouraging cheaper undocumented labour. He added that the situation poses risks to social stability, governance, and national security.
- Meanwhile, Nigeria has intensified diplomatic engagement with South African authorities over the safety of its citizens following renewed reports of attacks on foreign nationals during the unrest.
- Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner after concerns escalated over the safety of Nigerians living in the country. The meeting, held on Monday, May 4, formed part of Nigeria’s formal diplomatic response to the situation.
- The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) confirmed that at least two Nigerians were killed in separate incidents linked to anti-foreigner violence.
Nigerian authorities have urged stronger security measures and faster prosecution of offenders involved in the attacks.
They also called for structured bilateral engagement between both countries to address recurring xenophobic incidents and improve protection for Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
0 comment(s)
Leave a Comment