Omanghana
South Africa has dispatched its Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to Ghana as a special envoy in a bid to strengthen diplomatic relations following tensions sparked by recent anti-immigrant protests in South Africa.
The visit comes after the Ghanaian government postponed a planned state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and deferred the South Africa-Ghana Bi-National Commission (BNC), citing concerns over the safety of Ghanaians and growing public unease over xenophobic incidents.
Diplomatic Strain Follows Anti-Immigrant Protests
Relations between the two countries came under pressure earlier this month after anti-immigrant demonstrations in parts of South Africa heightened concerns about the safety of foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
The situation intensified following calls by an anti-migrant movement for undocumented foreigners to leave the country by the end of June 2026.
Amid fears of escalating violence, the Government of Ghana facilitated the repatriation of hundreds of its nationals from several South African communities.
Public concern in Ghana also grew after reports that a Ghanaian citizen was killed during unrest in Cape Town, prompting renewed calls for stronger protections for foreign nationals living in South Africa.
Against this backdrop, Ghana announced the postponement of President Ramaphosa’s scheduled visit and the Bi-National Commission meeting, stating that discussions would be more appropriate once concerns surrounding xenophobic attacks had subsided.
Lamola Holds Talks with President Mahama
During his visit to Accra, Minister Lamola held closed-door discussions with President John Dramani Mahama as part of efforts to restore confidence between the two countries.
According to South African officials, the envoy conveyed Pretoria’s regret over the recent incidents and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to maintaining its longstanding relationship with Ghana.
Lamola stressed that the South African government does not support acts of xenophobia and said authorities are taking action against individuals involved in unlawful intimidation, violence, and the establishment of illegal checkpoints targeting foreign nationals.
He reiterated that South Africa remains committed to the rule of law and rejects all forms of xenophobia, racism, homophobia, and violence.
The minister also emphasized the country’s support for safe, orderly, and legal migration across the African continent.
Ghana Seeks Continental Action
The issue has also moved beyond bilateral discussions.
Ghana has formally requested that the African Union (AU) place the recurring issue of xenophobic violence in South Africa on the agenda of an upcoming AU Summit, seeking broader continental engagement on the matter.
Other African countries, including Nigeria, have similarly raised concerns about the safety and welfare of their citizens living and working in South Africa.
Commitment to Stronger Relations
Despite the recent tensions, both Ghana and South Africa continue to enjoy longstanding diplomatic, economic, and historical ties.
Analysts believe the envoy’s visit reflects efforts by both governments to preserve those relations while addressing concerns surrounding the protection of migrants and promoting peaceful coexistence across the continent.
The outcome of the diplomatic engagement is expected to influence discussions on the rescheduling of the postponed state visit and the South Africa-Ghana Bi-National Commission, once both countries agree that conditions are conducive for high-level bilateral talks.
Source: Omanghana
