Ghana summons South Africa envoy over xenophobic incidents
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Ghana has summoned South Africa's envoy following several xenophobic incidents, including one where a legal Ghanaian migrant was told to return home and "fix his country." South Africa, a key destination for African workers, is experiencing an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent, leading to recurring xenophobic protests and violence. Recent online videos show Ghanaians being harassed. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa highlighted an incident in KwaZulu-Natal where a Ghanaian legal resident was confronted and instructed to leave. The ministry also warned of escalating tensions, advising foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, to stay indoors for safety. During his meeting with South Africa’s acting high commissioner Thando Dalamba, Ablakwa referenced Ghana’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle, emphasizing that unprovoked harassment of law-abiding individuals contradicts principles of African solidarity. Official 2022 statistics indicate approximately 2.4 million foreign-born individuals reside in South Africa, comprising about four percent of its population.
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