South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured that his government will take firm action against individuals involved in xenophobic attacks, stressing that violence and intimidation against foreign nationals will not be tolerated.
The assurance comes as Ghana begins efforts to evacuate hundreds of its citizens from South Africa following renewed attacks targeting migrants, with about 1,000 Ghanaians expected to be repatriated in phases.
Addressing members of the Pan-African Parliament, President Ramaphosa described the attacks as “sad and abhorrent,” expressing regret over the deaths and injuries recorded during the incidents.
He acknowledged concerns among some South Africans regarding illegal migration but insisted that such concerns cannot be used to justify violence, vigilantism or discrimination against foreigners.
“These incidents have been quite sad and abhorrent, where people have been injured and some people have died and lost their lives, which we as South Africa deeply regret and mourn,” he said.
President Ramaphosa noted that misinformation and prejudice had contributed to tensions, although he admitted that some citizens have genuine concerns about the social and economic effects of illegal migration.
However, he emphasised that his administration remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all people living within South Africa’s borders.
“As the South African government, I want to make it clear we have taken a firm stance against any form of intimidation, vigilantism or violence directed at people from other countries. We have taken a firm stand against hatred for people from other countries, xenophobia or Afrophobia,” he stated.
He added that the government has strengthened law enforcement measures to maintain public order, enforce immigration laws and prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced plans to evacuate nearly 1,000 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following the attacks.
The evacuation exercise is being carried out in phases, with the first group expected to arrive in Accra on Sunday, July 26, and Monday, July 27.
The government said the move forms part of efforts to safeguard the lives and wellbeing of Ghanaian citizens affected by the renewed xenophobic tensions.
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