The Government of Ghana has advised its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in parts of the country.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, government is deeply concerned about the growing incidents of violence allegedly being carried out by groups describing themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes.
The attacks, the Ministry said, have led to injuries, looting, destruction of property, and the forceful closure and takeover of businesses owned by African nationals.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 1, the government disclosed that it has already taken several diplomatic and humanitarian measures in response to the situation.
These include lodging formal protests through diplomatic channels, summoning the Acting South African High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union, and facilitating the evacuation of some Ghanaian nationals.
The government further urged Ghanaians currently living in South Africa to remain vigilant and stay in close contact with Ghana’s High Commission for assistance and consular support.
“Ghanaian nationals in the country are urged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular services,” the statement said.
Government also assured citizens that it will continue engaging South African authorities to ensure the safe evacuation of Ghanaians who may wish to return home.
“In the meantime, the Government of the Republic of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration,” the statement added.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and safety of Ghanaian citizens both within the country and abroad.
