Amid growing alarm over xenophobic violence directed at foreign nationals including Ghanaians South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to speak to the nation later on Thursday, April 23.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the upcoming national address forms part of efforts by South African authorities to ease tensions and reaffirm the protection of the rights and dignity of all residents in the country.
Ghana has issued a firm condemnation of the incidents, calling them “regrettable and unacceptable,” while also noting assurances from Pretoria that investigations are ongoing and steps are being taken to manage the situation.
According to Ablakwa, President Ramaphosa’s message is anticipated to encourage citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence and ensure the safety of foreign nationals living within South Africa.
He expressed concern over the developments, stating that such behaviour goes against the ideals of African solidarity, especially considering Ghana’s and other African countries’ historical support for South Africa during its struggle against apartheid.
The minister reiterated that the Ghanaian government will continue to press South African authorities to take decisive action to protect its citizens, stressing that host nations have an obligation to safeguard all lawful residents.
He also reaffirmed that Ghana will continue to ensure the safety of South Africans residing in the country, ruling out retaliation and highlighting Ghana’s tradition of peace and hospitality.
“I also take note of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s pledge to address the country later today to urge that South Africans respect the rights and the dignity of all persons who are living with them.
“As Africans, as human beings, these developments are most depressing because as Africans, we all know the role we play in assisting South Africa to defeat the apartheid regime,” he said.