The Government of Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union to place the issue of xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa on the agenda of its upcoming Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting scheduled for June 24–27, 2026, in El Alamein.
In a diplomatic letter signed by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana described the recurring attacks as a matter of “urgent continental interest” requiring collective African action.
According to the government, the continued xenophobic incidents in South Africa have resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of businesses and investments, and growing threats to the safety of African migrants.
Ghana stated that the attacks undermine the shared values of African unity and solidarity, particularly given the support many African nations offered South Africa during its anti-apartheid struggle and democratic transition.
“It is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years,” the statement noted.
The government further argued that the attacks violate key continental principles, including the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
According to the letter, the incidents weaken Pan-Africanism and contradict efforts aimed at promoting free movement, economic integration, and mutual respect across the continent.
Ghana has therefore urged the AU to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, establish a fact-finding mission into the causes of the violence, and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation initiatives to promote tolerance and inclusion.
Quoting Kwame Nkrumah, the government stressed that “the full potential and emancipation of Africa can only be achieved when Africa unites,” adding that “no African should be dehumanised on African soil.”
