Ghanaian President Urges AU to Address Rising Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
Ghana’s President has called on the African Union (AU) to convene an urgent debate on the reported escalation of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, warning that the growing violence against foreign nationals threatens African unity and regional integration.
The appeal comes amid renewed concerns over attacks targeting migrants and foreign-owned businesses in parts of South Africa, with several African governments closely monitoring the situation and expressing concern over the safety of their citizens living in the country.
According to the Ghanaian leader, the issue requires a coordinated continental response rather than isolated diplomatic engagements. He stressed that the African Union should take the lead in facilitating dialogue among member states to address the root causes of xenophobia and strengthen measures aimed at protecting migrants across the continent.
The president noted that freedom of movement, regional cooperation and African solidarity remain central objectives of the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He warned that persistent attacks on fellow Africans could undermine years of efforts to deepen economic integration and strengthen diplomatic relations among African nations.
He also urged member states to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of human rights, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. According to him, every African citizen should be able to live, work and conduct legitimate business in another African country without fear of violence, intimidation or discrimination.
The call follows reports of renewed xenophobic incidents that have affected migrants from several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In previous outbreaks of violence, businesses owned by foreign nationals were looted, properties destroyed and several people displaced.
Nigeria has been among the countries most affected by xenophobic violence in South Africa over the years. The Federal Government has repeatedly condemned attacks on its citizens while working through diplomatic channels to ensure their protection. It has also organised repatriation exercises for Nigerians who voluntarily chose to return home following periods of unrest.
The Ghanaian president emphasised that addressing xenophobia requires both immediate security measures and long-term social interventions. He called on governments to promote public education campaigns that encourage tolerance, cultural understanding and peaceful coexistence among different communities.
Political analysts believe the president’s proposal could receive support from other African leaders who have repeatedly voiced concerns about recurring attacks on migrants. They argue that a formal African Union debate could provide an opportunity for member states to adopt stronger continental strategies for preventing xenophobic violence and improving the protection of foreign nationals.
Human rights organisations have also continued to urge African governments to strengthen legal protections for migrants while ensuring that perpetrators of xenophobic attacks are investigated and prosecuted. They maintain that accountability is essential to preventing future violence and restoring confidence among affected communities.
South African authorities have consistently stated that violence targeting foreign nationals is unacceptable and have pledged to investigate criminal incidents while maintaining public order. Government officials have also emphasised that criminal acts should not be viewed as representing the views of the country’s entire population.
Diplomatic observers say continued engagement between African governments remains vital to preserving regional stability and strengthening cooperation on migration, trade and security issues. They note that collective action through the African Union could help address underlying tensions while reinforcing the continent’s commitment to unity.
As discussions continue, many Africans are looking to regional leaders and the African Union for concrete measures that will promote peaceful coexistence, safeguard the rights of migrants and prevent further outbreaks of xenophobic violence across the continent. The Ghanaian president’s call has added momentum to growing demands for a united African response to one of the region’s most persistent social and diplomatic challenges.
About the Author
