Anti-Immigrant Violence: South Africa Calls Ghana’s Push for AU Debate ‘Unfortunate’
Pretoria – In response to Ghana’s appeal for an African Union (AU) discussion on what it described as “xenophobic attacks” against African nationals, South Africa reiterated its dedication to solidarity, the rule of law, and the safety of all individuals living within its borders.
Ghana has requested that this issue be addressed during the upcoming AU Mid-Year Coordination Summit in Cairo, scheduled for 24 June 2026.
While Pretoria acknowledged some isolated incidents earlier this month involving conflicts with immigrants, including those from other African nations, it expressed regret over Ghana’s decision to elevate concerns regarding irregular migration to the AU.
The South African government condemned these actions promptly and instructed law enforcement agencies to function within the legal framework to ensure safety and hold offenders accountable.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, during the Freedom Day celebrations on 27 April, firmly criticized vigilante behavior and reiterated support for African countries.
“We did not walk alone into freedom,” President Ramaphosa reminded the people of South Africa.
“We were supported by a tide of solidarity from numerous African nations.
“These countries opened their borders to our liberation fighters, shared their resources, and provided shelter.
“They advocated for us when we could not speak for ourselves. The leaders and citizens of Africa sustained our struggle.
“It must never be that we undermine the African unity that facilitated our freedom.
“We are a people rooted in the values of ubuntu. We should not allow legitimate concerns about illegal migration to foster prejudice against our fellow Africans.
“We must ensure these concerns do not lead to xenophobia directed at individuals from other African countries or beyond. Instead, we must insist on upholding and enforcing the law.”
SA International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has since reached out to African foreign ministers and ambassadors, including those from Ghana and Nigeria, to assure them that the incidents were being addressed.
However, Minister Lamola dismissed claims that nationals from these nations were killed during the protests, stating: “There is no credible evidence to support this conclusion at this time.”
Lamola warned against manipulated footage and fake videos circulating online.
In a statement released to The Bulrushes on Friday, 8 May 2026, Minister Lamola emphasized South Africa’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, ubuntu, and unity while underscoring strong bilateral relationships with Ghana and Nigeria facilitated through Bi-National Commissions.
Minister Lamola encouraged colleagues to use these frameworks to tackle migration challenges and implement early warning systems.
South Africa noted it accommodates approximately three million migrants, with 90 percent being from the continent, making it the largest host of African immigrants.
While efforts at integration have largely succeeded, tensions have emerged due to unemployment and demands on public services.
The government is currently reviewing its immigration policy through a new White Paper on Migration, which will introduce measures such as a points-based visa system, an Intelligent Population Register, and a strengthened Border Management Authority, which has deported 500,000 individuals since 2023.
“South Africa will continue to lead with a Pan-African heart,” Minister Lamola stated.
“Our dedication is to solidarity, the rule of law, and the safety of all individuals within our borders.
“Migration must be managed through cooperation, compassion, and a commitment to continental responsibility.”
The South African government concluded by expressing a willingness for dialogue but characterized Ghana’s attempt to escalate concerns to the AU as unfortunate.
If the issue is included on the AU agenda, South Africa plans to propose a broader discussion on the root causes of migration, focusing on governance, democracy, and the rule of law.