Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to place the issue of xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa on the agenda of the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting scheduled for June 24 to 27, 2026, in El Alamein, Egypt.
In a diplomatic communication addressed to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ghana described the matter as one of “urgent continental interest” requiring collective action from African leaders.
The letter, signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed deep concern over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which it said had resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property and investments, as well as threats to the safety and wellbeing of African migrants.
“It is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years,” the statement noted.
Ghana said the incidents were especially worrying given the solidarity many African countries showed South Africa during its anti-apartheid struggle and democratic transition.
While recognising South Africa’s sovereignty and its responsibility to protect all persons within its territory, Ghana stressed that attacks targeting African nationals undermine “the shared principles of African solidarity, brotherhood and continental unity to which all Member States of the African Union are committed.”
According to the letter, Ghana believes the continued attacks constitute “a clear violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,” weaken the spirit of Pan-Africanism and contradict the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promotes free movement and economic integration across the continent.
Ghana therefore called on the AU to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, establish a fact-finding mission into the causes of the violence, and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and inclusion.
The Government further underscored the need for African unity in addressing the challenge.
“Africa’s future is one of shared dignity, prosperity and mutual respect,” the letter stated.
Quoting Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana added that “the full potential and emancipation of Africa can only be achieved when Africa unites,” stressing that “no African should be dehumanised on African soil.”
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