By Emmanuel Nduka
Ghana has initiated urgent diplomatic talks with South Africa following the circulation of disturbing viral videos allegedly showing xenophobic attacks on Ghanaian nationals, triggering swift engagement between both countries.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed he held discussions with his South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola, to address the situation and coordinate a response after the footage sparked widespread concern.
The intervention by Ghana comes as authorities in Pretoria move to engage African diplomatic missions in an effort to provide clarity and reassure affected countries amid rising tensions linked to the incidents.
In a statement, Ablakwa said his outreach was prompted by troubling scenes circulating online. “I called him on the trending videos about Ghanaians coming under extremely disturbing xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” he said.
He noted that the South African government had reacted with concern and pledged to investigate the incidents captured in the footage. “The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” he added.
South African officials are expected to brief African ambassadors as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at managing the situation and preventing further escalation.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s High Commission in South Africa has intensified efforts to identify and support affected nationals, working closely with authorities in Accra. Ablakwa disclosed that he has remained in constant contact with Ghana’s High Commissioner, Benjamin Quarshie, to coordinate the response.
He further revealed that one of the individuals seen in the viral footage had been located and was receiving assistance from Ghanaian officials. According to him, the victim is in stable condition and being supported through consular channels.
The minister reassured that no Ghanaian fatalities had been recorded and urged calm as investigations continue. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the protection of its citizens both at home and abroad.
Calling for unity across the continent, Ablakwa warned against allowing isolated incidents to fracture African solidarity. He stressed that the overwhelming majority of Africans remain united and should not be divided by the actions of a few.
The latest development adds to a history of xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically been targeted, often prompting diplomatic interventions and renewed calls for stronger preventive measures.
