The Government of Ghana has declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing growing concerns over recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa that have targeted Ghanaian nationals.
According to diplomatic sources in Accra and Pretoria, the decision follows a surge in anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa in recent weeks, which has forced the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians. An additional 900 Ghanaian nationals are also said to have registered to return home.
The decision comes amid heightened tensions after a Ghanaian was reportedly killed on June 30 during demonstrations by anti-immigration groups in parts of South Africa.
A diplomatic source in South Africa told the Daily Graphic that the Ghanaian government was “deeply concerned about the safety and dignity of its citizens in South Africa” and could not proceed with a high-level state visit “under the current circumstances.”
A source in Ghana also confirmed the government’s decision, stressing that the protection of Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a top priority.
According to the source, beyond concerns for the welfare of Ghanaians in South Africa, the government also considered the security implications surrounding President Ramaphosa’s proposed visit. Officials feared that the prevailing public sentiment over the attacks could trigger hostile reactions during the visit.
“The government’s position on the protection of Ghanaians abroad is non-negotiable,” the source said, adding that the current climate would not provide a conducive atmosphere for a state visit.
The source disclosed that Ghana has formally communicated its position to the South African government and urged authorities in Pretoria to take concrete steps to halt the xenophobic attacks and guarantee the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any such visit could be reconsidered.
Despite the diplomatic setback, government sources insist that relations between Ghana and South Africa remain cordial, expressing hope that the longstanding ties between the two countries will continue once the security concerns are adequately addressed.
