Ghana Petitions African Union Over Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

ACCRA, Ghana, 7th May: The Government of Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to place the growing xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa on the agenda of the upcoming Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union scheduled for June 24 to 27, 2026, in El Alamein, Egypt.

In a letter dated May 6, 2026, addressed to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed Ghana’s deep concern over the recurring incidents of xenophobic violence in South Africa.

According to the letter, the attacks have led to loss of lives, destruction of investments, and continue to threaten the safety and wellbeing of many African nationals living in South Africa.

The government described the continued violence against fellow Africans as troubling, especially considering the long-standing solidarity shown by African states during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and its democratic transformation.

“Manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years,” the letter stated, adding that such developments undermine the principles of African solidarity, brotherhood, and continental unity.

While acknowledging South Africa’s sovereignty and responsibility to protect all persons within its territory, Ghana maintained that the targeting of African nationals contradicts the spirit of Pan-Africanism and regional integration.

The government further argued that the attacks violate the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, weaken Africa’s integration agenda, and run counter to the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promotes free movement and cooperation among African states.

As part of its proposals to the African Union, Ghana requested:

The formal inclusion of the issue on the agenda of the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting;

The strengthening of AU monitoring mechanisms to ensure member states uphold their obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights;

The establishment of a fact-finding mission to investigate the root causes of xenophobic violence in South Africa and recommend solutions; and

The promotion of dialogue and reconciliation initiatives aimed at fostering tolerance, inclusion, and renewed commitment to African unity.

The government stressed that Africa’s future must be built on shared dignity, prosperity, and mutual respect despite the painful history of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid.

Referencing Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, the letter noted that the full emancipation and potential of Africa can only be achieved through unity and collective resolve.

The petition was signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and copied to the Chairperson of the Executive Council of the African Union and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Burundi.