Ghana-South Africa Business Chamber Condemns Xenophobic Attacks on Ghanaians

The Ghana-South Africa Business Chamber has issued a forceful condemnation of recent xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African nationals in South Africa, calling the violence deeply troubling and fundamentally at odds with the principles of Pan-African solidarity that have long bound the two nations.

In a statement released on Monday, the Chamber’s President, Tony Sekyere, described the attacks as acts of violence and outright disrespect of human rights, warning that the incidents have caused widespread anxiety, anger, and distress among Ghanaians both at home and in the diaspora.

“The concerns being expressed by citizens, community groups, and affected families are understandable, particularly given the longstanding friendship, solidarity, and shared history that Ghana and South Africa have enjoyed over many decades,” the statement read.

The Chamber commended the Government of Ghana for engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels and urged that these discussions continue with the urgency and seriousness the situation demands. It disclosed that it has formally contacted the South African High Commission in Ghana, requesting that the mission ensure the South African government protects vulnerable communities and foreign nationals on its soil.

Approximately 49,000 Ghanaians are reported to live in South Africa, a figure that underscores the scale of the community at risk. The call for protection comes as Ghana’s Bosome Freho MP urged the government to adopt a measured, diplomatic approach in safeguarding Ghanaians still living in the country.

The Chamber further demanded that perpetrators of the xenophobic attacks be brought to justice in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa, calling for swift legal action to deter future incidents. At the same time, it strongly discouraged any retaliatory actions, inflammatory rhetoric, or measures that could further strain the bilateral relationship between Ghana and South Africa.

Parliament’s Majority Chief Whip has also weighed in on the crisis, with Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor issuing a forceful condemnation of the escalating violence and calling for a continental response to the recurring pattern of attacks against African nationals in South Africa.

In its statement, the Chamber re-affirmed that xenophobia has no place on the African continent and called on all Africans to uphold the values of Pan-Africanism. “Our continent’s future depends on greater cooperation, integration, and mutual respect among its people,” the Chamber said. “The principles of Pan-Africanism, which have historically united our nations, must continue to guide our collective response to issues that threaten African solidarity.”

Expressing solidarity with all victims, the Chamber extended sympathy to affected families, businesses, and communities, and urged the continent to reject division in favour of unity, dignity, and mutual respect.

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