Ghana Declines Ramaphosa State Visit Over Xenophobic Attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa

Ghana has reportedly declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing escalating concerns over renewed xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals and other African migrants in South Africa.

According to diplomatic sources in both Accra and Pretoria, the decision follows a recent surge in anti-foreigner violence across parts of South Africa, where migrants have been subjected to attacks, intimidation and forced displacement.

The Daily Graphic reports that the deteriorating security situation has already led to the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians, while hundreds of others are reportedly awaiting evacuation back to Ghana.

Tensions intensified further after a Ghanaian national was allegedly killed on June 30 during demonstrations organised by xenophobic groups protesting the presence of African migrants in South Africa.

A South African diplomatic source told the newspaper that Ghana’s decision reflects deep concern over the safety, security and dignity of its citizens living in South Africa. The source indicated that proceeding with a high-level state visit under the prevailing circumstances would have sent the wrong signal, given the gravity of the situation.

A Ghanaian government source also confirmed the decision, stressing that protecting the lives and welfare of Ghanaians abroad remains a top priority for the government. The source added that authorities were equally mindful of the potential security risks associated with President Ramaphosa’s proposed visit at a time of heightened tensions.

According to the source, Ghana has formally conveyed its concerns to the South African government and urged it to take swift and decisive action to curb the xenophobic attacks, bring perpetrators to justice and guarantee the safety of Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents before any future state visit is considered.

Despite the diplomatic setback, officials on both sides have emphasised that the incident does not diminish the longstanding friendship between Ghana and South Africa. The two countries are expected to continue engaging through diplomatic channels while working together to address the concerns and strengthen bilateral relations.

The reported decision underscores Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad while reinforcing calls for stronger measures to combat xenophobia and protect the rights of migrants across the African continent.