NEWS
Ghana Declines Ramaphosa’s Proposed State Visit Amid Xenophobic Tensions
The Government of Ghana has reportedly declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, as diplomatic tensions persist over recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to Ghanaian officials who spoke to DW, the proposed visit, which was expected to take place in early August, was turned down due to growing public anger over the attacks and concerns that the visit could trigger protests and public backlash across Ghana.
The development underscores the lingering strain in relations between the two African nations following renewed incidents of xenophobic violence that have drawn widespread condemnation and heightened calls for stronger protection of foreign nationals living in South Africa.
Sources within the Ghanaian government indicated that the decision was taken in the interest of preserving public order while reflecting the concerns of Ghanaian citizens over the treatment of fellow Africans in South Africa.
Officials in Accra are said to have maintained that the safety, welfare, and dignity of Ghanaian citizens remain a top priority. They reportedly urged the South African government to take decisive measures to curb xenophobic attacks, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide credible assurances that foreign nationals would be adequately protected.
The officials further indicated that meaningful action by Pretoria to address the security concerns would be essential before discussions on any future high-level diplomatic engagement, including a state visit by President Ramaphosa, could resume.
The reported decision highlights the broader challenge facing African governments as they seek to strengthen regional cooperation while addressing recurring concerns over the safety and rights of migrants within the continent.