In brief
Ghana has delayed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s August visit amid growing xenophobia that forced the repatriation of more than 900 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa. The postponement follows violent protests accusing foreigners of fueling crime and unemployment, prompting Ghana to warn that the visit could trigger further unrest. South Africa argues it has taken steps to curb the protests and wishes to maintain ties, promising a new date for diplomatic engagement. The incident underscores deeper tensions over undocumented migrants on the continent and the need for coordinated policy action.
Ghana has postponed a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa after a surge of xenophobic protests that led to the repatriation of more than 900 Ghanaian citizens from South Africa.
Ramaphosa had been due to fly to Accra in the first week of August to strengthen ties between the two nations, but Ghana’s government spokesman Felix Kwakye Ofosu said the visit would be delayed "for the time being" to avoid potential mass demonstrations.
South Africa’s presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya reaffirmed the country’s commitment to deepening cooperation with its "sister nation" and assured that diplomatic engagements would continue to identify a mutually suitable date.
The diplomatic rift intensified after a viral video showed a Ghanaian nom de plume, Emmanuel Asamoah, being told to "go fix his country," and news of the alleged killing of Ghanaian national Bahiru Isak during anti‑immigration protests further strained relations. Ghana has repatriated over 900 of its nationals, while other African states such as Nigeria, Malawi and Kenya have also dismantled foreigner‑supporting movements.
Analysts warn that South Africa risks isolated if it fails to manage anti‑migrant sentiment, especially as xenophobia, blamed for unemployment and crime, persists. The African Union and international bodies call for a fact‑finding mission to address ongoing attacks on foreigners, citing violations of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
