Ghana’s Minority in Parliament is calling for urgent action after a series of attacks on Ghanaians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa.
In a statement released on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, members of the Minority on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee said they are deeply worried about what appears to be a growing pattern of organised violence.
They pointed to incidents in areas such as KwaZulu-Natal, Durban and Gauteng.
According to them, some Ghanaian-owned businesses have been targeted, while individuals have faced harassment and physical attacks. There are also reports that some victims were even denied access to basic services.
The group rejected claims that foreign nationals are responsible for crime or economic problems, describing such arguments as false and dangerous.
They highlighted a widely shared video showing a Ghanaian man, Emmanuel Asamoah, being assaulted, saying it reflects how serious the situation has become.
They also raised concerns that in some cases, these attacks happened in front of law enforcement officers who did little or nothing to intervene.
The Minority acknowledged that Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has been in touch with South African authorities and has offered support to affected Ghanaians.
They also noted that South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has publicly condemned the attacks.
However, they stressed that statements alone are not enough and must be followed by real action.
They are urging South African authorities to quickly arrest and prosecute those responsible and to hold security agencies accountable if they fail to protect people.
They also want immediate steps taken to ensure the safety of all foreign nationals.
On Ghana’s side, the Minority is calling for stronger diplomatic efforts. This includes direct talks between President John Mahama and President Ramaphosa to secure firm commitments to protect Ghanaians.
They also want the government to increase support through Ghana’s High Commission in South Africa and to take the matter to the African Union for a deeper investigation into repeated xenophobic attacks.
In addition, they are encouraging a joint response from ECOWAS and suggesting that Ghana should push for compensation for victims who have lost property or suffered harm.
Finally, they sent a message to Ghanaians living in South Africa, urging them to stay alert and keep in close contact with the High Commission.
The Minority says it will continue to push for strong action that reflects how serious the situation is and protects the dignity of Ghanaians abroad.
