The government has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa as xenophobic attacks against African migrants intensify, leaving many injured and forcing the closure of businesses owned by foreign nationals.
A release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Government has taken several steps, including conveying formal protests at the highest diplomatic level, summoning the South African Acting High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union and evacuating nationals.
It said, “Government of Ghana hereby advises Ghanaian nationals to exercise extreme caution in their travel plans and avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice. Ghanaian nationals in the country are urged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular services.”
It noted that the Government of the Republic of Ghana will continue to collaborate with the relevant authorities of the Republic of South Africa to facilitate the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals to ensure their safety.
“In the meantime, the Government of the Republic of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration,” it said.
The ministry reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of Ghanaian nationals at home and abroad.
Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD
