Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has held urgent diplomatic talks with his South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola, following viral videos showing alleged xenophobic attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Mr Ablakwa said he initiated a telephone conversation with the South African Minister for International Relations and Cooperation to address the disturbing incidents and coordinate an official response.
“I called him on the trending videos about Ghanaians coming under extremely disturbing xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” he stated.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the South African government has expressed concern and assured Ghana of swift action.
“The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” he said.
He further disclosed that authorities in South Africa are expected to brief African ambassadors as part of efforts to address the situation and reassure affected countries.
Mr Ablakwa also confirmed that he has been in constant communication with Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, to coordinate Ghana’s response.
“I am also able to confirm that since yesterday, I have been in constant contact with Ghana’s High Commissioner in South Africa… coordinating our response,” he noted.
He revealed that Ghana’s diplomatic mission has already located one of the victims captured in the viral footage and is providing consular support.
“I am gladdened that so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well,” he added.
The Minister assured that no Ghanaian fatalities have been recorded in connection with the incident and urged the public to remain calm.
“No Ghanaian life has been lost. We urge calm and confidence in our collective capacity to protect Ghanaians,” he said.
Reaffirming government’s commitment, Mr Ablakwa stressed that the administration remains resolute in protecting the welfare and safety of Ghanaians both at home and abroad.
He also called for unity across the continent, cautioning against actions that could undermine Pan-African solidarity.
“May these regrettable incidents never quench our Pan-African love and solidarity… we shall not be divided by the hatred of a few fringe elements,” he added.
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