South Africa’s government has stated its willingness to cooperate with an African Union (AU) review of xenophobia claims. This commitment follows a formal petition by Ghana to the continental body concerning recurring violence and threats against foreign nationals residing in South Africa. The South African government indicated it has nothing to conceal and will present its account of events if the AU formally addresses the issue.
Context of the Diplomatic Escalation
The situation escalated when Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, sent a letter dated May 6, 2026, to the AU Commission. He urged the commission to treat the matter of violence against African migrants in South Africa as a pressing continental concern. The petition cited instances of deaths, destruction of businesses, and a general atmosphere of insecurity experienced by foreign nationals.
Ghana specifically requested that the issue be placed on the agenda for the AU’s Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, scheduled to take place in El Alamein from June 24 to 27. This diplomatic action was prompted by rising fears within Ghanaian communities in South Africa, exacerbated by recent anti-immigrant protests in various parts of the country.
South Africa’s Response and Stance
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addressed the allegations at a post-Cabinet meeting media briefing. She asserted that South Africa has no reason to hide any information and would provide its report and facts if the AU decides to formally discuss the matter. “Our position is that we have nothing to hide as a South African government,” Ntshavheni stated.
While acknowledging that incidents involving attacks on foreign nationals do occur, Ntshavheni argued that these do not constitute xenophobic attacks. She emphasized the need for security agencies to act decisively against any criminal behavior, regardless of the nationality of the perpetrators or victims. This stance suggests a distinction between targeted xenophobic violence and general criminality affecting foreign nationals.
Ghana’s Concerns and AU Petition Details
The Ghanaian petition highlighted the severe impact of the violence on its citizens and other African migrants. It noted the loss of lives, the destruction of businesses, and the pervasive insecurity that forces foreign nationals to live in constant fear. The letter from Minister Ablakwa specifically urged the AU Commission to recognize the urgency and continental significance of the problem.
Ghana’s diplomatic move underscores a broader concern about the treatment of African migrants within the continent. The petition acknowledged South Africa’s sovereign right to manage its immigration laws but stressed that attacks on African migrants contradict the principles of African unity and cooperation that the AU champions.
Impact on Foreign Nationals and Businesses
The resurfacing of anti-immigrant sentiments and protests has created a climate of fear for many foreign nationals in South Africa. On April 28, 2026, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa issued a public advisory, urging its citizens to exercise caution and avoid areas where demonstrations were anticipated. Some Ghanaian business owners were advised to temporarily close their shops due to fears of looting and direct attacks.
Expert Perspectives and Data
While specific data points on the extent of xenophobic violence were not detailed in the initial report, the Ghanaian petition references
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