The Ghana-South Africa Business Chamber has come out strongly against the wave of xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa, describing the violence as a betrayal of African solidarity.
In a statement signed by its President, Tony Sekyere, the Chamber said it had noted with deep concern reports and images of attacks, intimidation, and violence against foreign nationals, including members of the Ghanaian community. These incidents have sparked widespread anxiety and anger among Ghanaians at home and abroad.
“The concerns being expressed by citizens, community groups, and affected families are understandable, particularly given the longstanding friendship, solidarity, and shared history that Ghana and South Africa have enjoyed over many decades,” the statement read.
The Chamber “categorically condemns these acts of violence and outright disrespect of human rights” and expressed support for Ghanaians who have raised concerns. It commended the Ghanaian government for engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels and urged both sides to continue talks with urgency.
The Chamber also revealed it had engaged the South African High Commission in Ghana, calling on the mission to ensure the South African government takes all necessary steps to protect vulnerable communities and foreign nationals. It further urged authorities to “bring perpetrators of xenophobic attacks to justice in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa.”
The statement stressed that Ghanaians have always seen South Africa as both a strategic economic partner and a sister African nation, making the attacks particularly painful. “It's therefore deeply troubling when fellow Africans become targets of hostility, discrimination, or violence based solely on their nationality or origin,” the Chamber said.
While expressing profound concern, the Chamber appealed for calm and restraint, warning against any retaliatory actions that could damage relations between the two countries. “We strongly discourage retaliation, inflammatory rhetoric, or actions that may further strain the longstanding relations between the peoples of Ghana and South Africa,” it said. “Constructive engagement, respect for the rule of law, and continued diplomatic dialogue remain the most effective means of addressing these challenges.”
The Chamber reiterated that xenophobia has no place on the continent and called on Africans to uphold the values of Pan-Africanism. “Our continent's future depends on greater cooperation, integration, and mutual respect among its people. The principles of Pan-Africanism, which have historically united our nations, must continue to guide our collective response to issues that threaten African solidarity,” the statement said.
The Chamber expressed solidarity with all victims and extended sympathies to affected families, businesses, and communities. It called on all Africans to reject division and embrace unity, dignity, and mutual respect.