Accra: Recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa have continued to spark outrage and concern across the African continent, particularly among countries whose citizens have been directly affected by the violence.
According to Ghana Web, the attacks have also reignited debates about Pan-Africanism, African unity, and the treatment of migrants within the continent, with several African leaders, diplomats, activists, and public figures condemning the violence and calling for stronger protection for foreign nationals.
In Ghana, the issue has drawn reactions from political leaders, business figures, analysts, and civil society actors, many of whom have advocated safe repatriation, diplomatic engagement, and support for affected citizens returning home. Notable personalities who have publicly spoken about xenophobia in South Africa and the repatriation of Ghanaians include Ibrahim Mahama, John Dramani Mahama, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Benjamin Quashie, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Eric Twum, Eric Adjei, Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, and Solomon Owusu.
Business mogul Ibrahim Mahama made a passionate appeal to Ghanaians affected by xenophobic tensions in South Africa to return home and contribute to Ghana's development. He pledged support to help returning Ghanaians rebuild their businesses and livelihoods back home. President John Dramani Mahama strongly condemned the attacks and reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to Pan-Africanism and peaceful coexistence among Africans, emphasizing that there is no room for xenophobia in Ghana.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed concern over the attacks, leading diplomatic engagements with South African authorities and coordinating evacuation arrangements for Ghanaians willing to return home. Benjamin Quashie, Ghana's High Commissioner to South Africa, supervised voluntary evacuation and repatriation arrangements during periods of heightened tensions.
Civil rights lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor stressed the need for dignity and rights protection for Ghanaians returning from South Africa, criticizing forceful deportations. Eric Twum called for stronger government intervention to protect Ghanaian traders and migrants, highlighting the need for better economic opportunities at home. Eric Adjei condemned the attacks and urged authorities to intensify diplomatic engagement to prevent further violence.
Political analyst Dr. Zaato described the tensions as a threat to African unity and regional cooperation, warning that African leaders must address the root causes of xenophobia. Solomon Owusu criticized the attacks on foreign nationals and urged Ghanaian authorities to ensure proper support and reintegration for citizens returning from South Africa.
The reactions from these personalities reflect growing concern over the safety and well-being of Ghanaians living in South Africa amid recurring xenophobic tensions. Their comments continue to fuel discussions about African solidarity, economic opportunities, and the need for stronger continental cooperation to prevent xenophobic violence and protect foreign nationals across Africa.