Following recent xenophobic attacks on Ghanaian nationals in South Africa, the Government of Ghana has repatriated 297 citizens, with plans underway to evacuate more nationals still stranded in the country.
The development has raised concerns among many Ghanaians over the safety of citizens living and working in South Africa.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s Adekyee Mu Nsem programme hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu, international relations expert Prof. Agenim Boateng described the situation as “very worrying” and strongly condemned the attacks on foreign nationals.
According to him, the actions of some South Africans against fellow Africans would not benefit the country in any way, especially when many foreigners are engaged in legitimate businesses and contributing to the economy.
He noted that South African citizens already benefit from unemployment support systems, making it unfair to target foreigners who are only striving to earn a living.
Prof. Boateng commended the Ghanaian government for its swift repatriation efforts and disclosed that additional batches of Ghanaians are expected to return home in the coming days.
He also urged Ghanaian nationals still residing in South Africa to make themselves available to Ghana’s diplomatic representatives in the country to facilitate their evacuation and ensure their safety.
The international relations specialist further called on the Government of Ghana to consider compensating affected returnees who may have lost businesses and properties as a result of the attacks.
Prof. Boateng also stressed the importance of Africans registering with their embassies whenever they travel abroad. He revealed that among the repatriated Ghanaians, only about 10 had officially registered with the Ghana Embassy in South Africa.
“Africans generally do not like registering with embassies when they travel, but it is very important in times of crisis,” he said.
Reacting to some of the disturbing videos circulating online, Prof. Boateng questioned how fellow Africans could subject one another to such treatment. He recalled the support many African countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, offered South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle and the era of Nelson Mandela.
He called on the South African government to take decisive action to bring the situation under control and protect foreign nationals living in the country.
Prof. Boateng further urged the African Union to intervene decisively to prevent future occurrences, insisting that Africa must uphold unity and solidarity among its people.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah