Xenophobic Attacks: Ghana Warns Citizens Against Non-Essential Travel to South Africa

The Government of Ghana has expressed grave concern over escalating xenophobic attacks in South Africa and has advised Ghanaians to avoid non-essential travel to the country until further notice.

In a statement issued Monday, June 1, 2026, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Mahama Administration condemned the attacks by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes.

The violence has resulted in injuries, forced closure and takeover of businesses, looting, and significant loss of property, with Africans, including Ghanaians, targeted.

The government said it has taken immediate steps to protect Ghanaian nationals, including lodging formal protests at the highest diplomatic level, summoning the South African Acting High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union, and evacuating affected Ghanaian citizens.

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana will continue to collaborate with the relevant authorities of the Republic of South Africa to facilitate the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals to ensure their safety,” the statement read in part.

Ghanaian nationals were advised to exercise extreme caution in their travel plans and to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa.

Those already in the country have been urged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for consular services and updates.

The government also called on South African authorities to provide adequate security for targeted African groups and to enforce law and order.

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana wishes to call on the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration,” the statement added.

The Mahama Administration reiterated its commitment to prioritising the welfare of Ghanaian nationals both at home and abroad, and said it would continue to monitor the situation closely.

Ghanaians in South Africa who require assistance have been directed to contact the Ghana High Commission for support.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/