The Ghanaian government has declined a request for an official state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, pointing to escalating worries regarding recent xenophobic violence in South Africa that has targeted Ghanaian citizens.
According to verified sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic refusal comes after a spike in anti-foreigner hostility across several South African regions in recent weeks. The violence has already resulted in the repatriation of roughly 1,000 Ghanaians, while another 900 citizens are currently registered to be brought home. Additionally, one Ghanaian national was reported killed on June 30 during the peak of demonstrations staged by South African xenophobic groups against African migrants.
A credible source stated that the Ghanaian government was deeply concerned about the safety and dignity of its citizens in South Africa and could not proceed with a high-level visit under the current circumstances.
An official Ghanaian source at the Foreign Ministry confirmed the decision, highlighting the administration’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens overseas. The source explained that the Ghanaian government was also deeply concerned about the security implications for the South African President, taking into account fears of reprisal.
Furthermore, the source noted that the government’s position on the protection of Ghanaians abroad was non-negotiable, noting that in the present volatile xenophobic situation, the reception of President Ramaphosa could spark unwelcome reactions, and the government does not intend to see him in such an environment.
The Foreign Ministry has clearly communicated this stance to South Africa, demanding that concrete measures be taken to halt the violence and ensure the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any such diplomatic visit can be scheduled.