Accra: Dr Kofi Osei-Kusi, President of the Pan-African Leadership Institute (PALI), has described attempts to use recent xenophobic attacks in parts of Africa to undermine the vision of African unity as misguided and counterproductive. He emphasized that while recent attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa have raised concerns across the continent, isolated incidents should not be allowed to weaken the long-standing dream of continental integration championed by Africa's founding fathers.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Osei-Kusi's remarks come amid renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians and other African migrants. In response to these developments, the Ghanaian government recently approved the evacuation of hundreds of Ghanaians from South Africa following reports of harassment and violence. The first batch of returnees is expected to arrive in Accra on Wednesday, May 27.
The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has announced support measures for affected nationals. These measures include financial assistance, transportation, reintegration support, psychological counselling, and access to employment and business opportunities upon their return to Ghana. Additionally, South African authorities have pledged to act against perpetrators of xenophobic violence after diplomatic concerns were raised by Ghana and other African countries.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the African Union (AU), Dr Osei-Kusi stated that the recent attacks were driven more by poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to opportunities rather than hatred. He argued that the situation in South Africa reflects scapegoating rather than a genuine hatred for Africa, and emphasized that these incidents should not be used as a basis to dismantle African unity or the African Union.
Dr Osei-Kusi highlighted the importance of African unity for the continent's development, prosperity, and global influence. He stressed that AU Day, observed annually on May 25, remains one of the most significant days on the continent's calendar. The AU Day commemorates the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later transformed into the African Union (AU) in 2002. The AU, with its 55 member states, continues to champion economic integration, peace and security, democratic governance, and sustainable development across the continent through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The PALI President underscored the necessity of frequently remembering Africa's history and collective aspirations to preserve the vision of Pan-Africanism and continental solidarity. He recalled Africa's deep divisions following the 19th-century partitioning by colonial powers, which split families, ethnic groups, and communities across artificial borders.
Dr Osei-Kusi noted that despite the opposition faced by Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, for his Pan-African ideals, many African countries have since recognized the importance of regional cooperation and integration. He expressed concern over the 'colonised mindsets' that some Africans continue to hold, which undermine the continent's confidence and progress.
In conclusion, Dr Osei-Kusi urged African leaders and citizens to deepen continental cooperation rather than allow divisions and intolerance to derail the Pan-African agenda. He emphasized that the AU Day should serve as a reminder that Africa's future depends on unity, confidence, and collective progress.