Ghana petitions African Union over Xenophobic attacks in South Africa

Ghana Petitions African Union Over Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

The Government of Ghana has formally called on the African Union to urgently address the growing wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, warning that the situation threatens African unity and regional integration.

In a diplomatic letter dated May 6, 2026 and addressed to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa, Ghana requested that the matter be included on the agenda of the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union scheduled for June 24–27 in El Alamein.

Signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the letter expressed deep concern over recurring attacks against African nationals in South Africa, noting that the incidents have led to deaths, destruction of businesses and investments, and growing insecurity among migrants living in the country.

The government described the continued attacks as a direct contradiction to the principles of Pan-Africanism, solidarity, and continental brotherhood, especially considering the support many African countries offered South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.

Ghana argued that the attacks violate the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and undermine the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to promote free movement, integration, and economic cooperation across Africa.

Beyond requesting discussions on the matter, Ghana also proposed a number of measures for consideration by the African Union. These include strengthening AU monitoring mechanisms to ensure member states uphold their human rights obligations, establishing a fact-finding mission to investigate the root causes of xenophobic violence in South Africa, and promoting dialogue and reconciliation initiatives aimed at fostering tolerance and inclusion across the continent.

The letter further stressed that Africa’s future must be built on shared dignity, prosperity, and mutual respect. Referencing Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, the government stated that the full emancipation and potential of Africa can only be achieved through unity and collective action.

Ghana concluded by urging the African Union to take decisive steps to ensure that no African is “dehumanised on African soil.”