Ghana has formally summoned South Africa’s envoy following a series of “xenophobic incidents” targeting foreign nationals, including a specific case where a legal Ghanaian migrant was instructed to return to his home country and “fix his country.” This diplomatic action underscores growing concerns over escalating tensions and harassment faced by migrants in South Africa.

South Africa, recognized as the most industrialized economy on the African continent, has historically served as a significant destination for both legal and undocumented African workers. However, the nation is currently grappling with a severe unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent. This economic strain has contributed to repeated outbreaks of xenophobic and anti-migrant protests, which have occasionally escalated into violence.

In recent days, multiple videos circulating online have depicted instances of Ghanaians and other migrants being subjected to harassment. In response to these alarming developments, South Africa’s acting police minister issued a strong condemnation on Friday, asserting that attacks on foreign nationals are “unlawful” and fundamentally violate the country's constitutional values of dignity and equality. Firoz Cachalia, the minister, stated unequivocally that “Acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” adding that police have been “instructed to act decisively and without hesitation in addressing these incidents.”

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted a particular incident in the southeastern KwaZulu-Natal province. According to a statement released by the foreign ministry late on Thursday, a Ghanaian individual, who is a legal resident, was confronted and “instructed to leave South Africa and ‘fix his country’.” The ministry also issued a stern warning about “escalating tensions,” advising foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, to “remain indoors for their safety.”

During his meeting with South Africa’s acting high commissioner, Thando Dalamba, Minister Ablakwa invoked Ghana’s historical “support for the anti-apartheid struggle.” He emphasized that the “unprovoked harassment and attacks on law-abiding individuals are contrary to the principles of African solidarity,” highlighting the dissonance between current events and shared historical bonds.

According to South Africa’s statistics agency, the country hosts more than three million foreigners, constituting 5.1 percent of its total population. A significant majority, over 63 percent, originate from countries within the 16-member Southern African Development Community (SADC) bloc, further illustrating the regional dimension of this migration and the current challenges.