Ghana Declines Ramaphosa State Visit Over Xenophobic Attacks

Accra Evening News

Ghana has declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following growing concerns over xenophobic attacks against Ghanaians and other African migrants in South Africa.

Diplomatic sources in Accra and Pretoria say the decision was influenced by the recent violence, which has led to the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians, while hundreds more are reportedly awaiting evacuation.

The move also follows reports that a Ghanaian was killed during anti-migrant protests on June 30. South African authorities have denied that the death was connected to the demonstrations.

According to diplomatic sources, Ghana's decision was based on two main concerns: the safety and welfare of Ghanaians living in South Africa and possible security risks surrounding President Ramaphosa's proposed visit.

A Ghanaian diplomatic source said it would have been inappropriate to proceed with a state visit while concerns remain over the treatment of Ghanaian citizens. The source added that protecting Ghanaians abroad remains a priority and that officials could not predict public reaction to President Ramaphosa's presence in Ghana.

Ghana has formally communicated its concerns to South Africa and called for decisive action to end the attacks and guarantee the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any future visit is considered.

President Ramaphosa had requested the visit as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Ghana and South Africa.

Despite the development, diplomatic sources say relations between the two countries remain cordial, and both governments remain committed to maintaining their longstanding ties.