The Government of Ghana has formally summoned the South African envoy to protest a surge in xenophobic harassment and intimidation targeting its citizens in the Republic of South Africa.

In a press release issued Thursday, April 23, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Acting High Commissioner of the South African High Commission in Ghana, Mr. Thando Dalamba, was called to a meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to address the escalating tensions.

The diplomatic move follows the circulation of viral videos documenting acts of harassment against foreign nationals. Minister Ablakwa specifically cited an incident in KwaZulu-Natal, where a legal Ghanaian resident was confronted and ordered to “fix his country” after being forced to provide proof of his legal status.

“Such conduct undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding individuals,” the Ministry stated, registering a formal protest against the “unprovoked harassment.”

While the Ministry noted that no fatalities or injuries have been recorded in the current wave of incidents, it highlighted that tensions are high enough that foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, are being advised to remain indoors for their own safety. The Ghanaian government stressed the urgent need for intervention to prevent a recurrence of past xenophobic violence that resulted in the loss of lives and property.

During the summons, Minister Ablakwa underscored the deep historical ties between the two nations, reminding the envoy of Ghana’s pivotal role in the anti-apartheid struggle and the sacrifices made under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah to support South Africa’s liberation. He emphasized that current attacks are contrary to the principles of African solidarity and peaceful coexistence.

In response, Acting High Commissioner Dalamba acknowledged the concerns and assured the Ghanaian government that South African law enforcement is monitoring the situation closely. He indicated that the South African government is committed to restoring calm and holding those responsible for the harassment accountable.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded by assuring the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaian nationals in South Africa through ongoing diplomatic engagement.