Ghana petitions African Union over xenophobic attacks in South Africa

Ghana has formally lodged a complaint with the African Union over a renewed wave of xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in South Africa, including Ghanaian traders and residents.

Ghana confirmed on Tuesday that it has submitted a petition requesting the AU to place the issue on the agenda of its Eighth Mid‑Year Coordination Meeting, scheduled later this year. The move is aimed at securing continental intervention to address what Ghana describes as persistent harassment, intimidation, and threats faced by its citizens living and working in South Africa.

According to Ghanaian officials, the petition follows a series of reported incidents in recent months, including intimidation during periodic immigration crackdowns and protests targeting foreign nationals. Ghanaian business owners in parts of Johannesburg and Pretoria have cited property damage, verbal abuse, and restrictions on commercial activity as part of the wider pattern of hostility.

The Ghanaian government said it is seeking urgent AU action to reinforce commitments to the Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons in Africa and to guarantee the safety and protection of all Africans residing within member states. Officials emphasized that the step is not intended to strain bilateral relations with Pretoria, but rather to pursue a coordinated regional response that prevents further escalation and protects the rights of African migrants.

“Ghana believes that the African Union must take a proactive role in safeguarding the dignity and security of Africans wherever they live on the continent,” a senior Foreign Ministry official said. “This is about upholding the principles of Pan-African solidarity and ensuring that free movement is not undermined by violence or discrimination.”

The Eighth Mid‑Year Coordination Meeting brings together AU heads of state, regional economic communities, and other continental bodies to review integration and cooperation issues across Africa. Ghana is hoping the forum will produce concrete recommendations and a monitoring mechanism to address xenophobic violence.

South Africa has faced recurring tensions over immigration in the past decade, with periodic outbreaks of violence often linked to economic pressures and competition in informal sectors. Ghanaian authorities say the latest petition reflects growing frustration among West African communities over the lack of lasting solutions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that it remains in contact with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria to provide consular support to affected nationals while pushing for diplomatic engagement at the continental level.

No official response has yet been issued by the South African government or the AU Commission regarding Ghana’s petition.

BY: Philip Kendriz Elikem