The Government of Ghana has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in the country.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed grave concern over increasing attacks allegedly carried out by groups identifying themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes. The incidents have reportedly resulted in injuries, looting, property destruction, business closures, and the forceful takeover of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
The government disclosed that it has already taken several diplomatic measures in response to the situation. These include lodging formal protests at the highest diplomatic levels, summoning South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Ghana, petitioning the African Union, and facilitating the evacuation of some Ghanaian nationals affected by the violence.
“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,” the statement said.
Ghanaians currently residing in South Africa have also been encouraged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission to access consular assistance and support services.
The Mahama administration reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens abroad and indicated that it would continue working with South African authorities to facilitate the evacuation of nationals who may wish to return home.
The government further called on South African authorities to strengthen security measures for vulnerable African communities and take decisive steps to restore law and order.
“In the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration, the Government of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory,” the statement added.
The travel advisory comes amid growing concerns across the continent over recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa, which have periodically strained diplomatic relations between African countries and raised questions about the safety of migrant communities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the welfare of Ghanaian nationals, both at home and abroad, remains a top priority for the government.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
