Ghana Seeks Diplomatic Resolution to Xenophobic Tensions with South Africa
In early 2024, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama announced a diplomatic initiative aimed at easing rising tensions between Accra and Pretoria over recurrent attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa. The move followed a postponement of scheduled bilateral talks, including a planned visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, after Ghana cited safety concerns for its citizens and investors.
Special Envoy Engages Ghanaian Leadership
President Mahama disclosed that he had met with a special envoy dispatched by President Ramaphosa during the African Union Extraordinary Summit in Accra. The envoy, identified later as South African Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola, confirmed the meeting took place the day before Mahama’s public statement.
During the encounter, Mahama reiterated Ghana’s position that while the country harbours no animosity toward South Africa, it remains deeply troubled by the pattern of violence targeting foreigners and the resulting economic losses for African entrepreneurs operating in South Africa.
South Africa’s Official Stance
Minister Lamola described himself as a special envoy acting on behalf of President Ramaphosa. He emphasized that South Africa “categorically rejects xenophobia, racism, homophobia and violence in all forms” and affirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Lamola also highlighted Pretoria’s support for “safe, regular and orderly migration” across the continent, noting that addressing the root causes of irregular migration is essential to curbing hostility toward migrants.
Ghana Calls for African Union Intervention
Beyond the bilateral dialogue, President Mahama revealed that Ghana had formally requested the African Union (AU) to place the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa on the agenda of the next AU summit. According to Mahama, the Chairman of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, acknowledged the need for a continental discussion.
“Sweeping this matter under the carpet will not solve its causes,” Mahama stated. He argued that bringing the topic to the AU forum would not isolate South Africa but would instead create a constructive platform for all member states to collaborate on a lasting solution.
Implications for Continental Integration
The dispute has taken on added significance as African nations advance the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Safety for migrants, traders, and investors is increasingly viewed as a prerequisite for building trust in cross‑border commerce.
South Africa remains one of the continent’s primary destinations for African migrants and businesses. Consequently, recurring outbreaks of violence against foreigners are seen not merely as internal security challenges but as broader diplomatic concerns that could affect regional integration efforts.
By dispatching a high‑level envoy rather than relying solely on public statements, Pretoria signals its willingness to engage diplomatically while maintaining that xenophobic acts do not reflect official government policy.
Outlook
Whether the current diplomatic outreach will defuse tensions may ultimately depend on the discussions scheduled for the upcoming AU summit. Ghana’s push for a continental debate underscores the desire for a coordinated, transparent response that protects the rights and investments of all Africans living and working across borders.
