Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to place recurring xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa on the agenda of its upcoming continental meeting, calling for stronger regional action and accountability mechanisms.
In a letter dated May 6 and signed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana urged the AU Commission to consider the issue as a “matter of urgent continental interest” at the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting scheduled for June 24–27, 2026, in El Alamein, Egypt.
Ghana said it remains deeply concerned about repeated incidents of violence targeting African migrants in South Africa, which it said have led to deaths, destruction of property and growing insecurity among affected communities.
“It is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years,” the letter stated.
The government argued that such incidents undermine core principles of African unity and solidarity, as well as the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promotes freer movement of people, goods and services across the continent.
Ghana called on the AU to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure member states comply with obligations under the AU Constitutive Act and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
It also proposed the establishment of a fact-finding mission to investigate the root causes of xenophobic violence in South Africa and recommend remedial measures.
In addition, Ghana urged the AU to promote structured dialogue and reconciliation initiatives aimed at improving tolerance, inclusion and integration among African populations.
The letter referenced Africa’s shared historical struggles, including colonialism and apartheid, stating that the continent’s future must be built on “shared dignity, prosperity and mutual respect.”
Ghana also invoked the legacy of its first President, Kwame Nkrumah, emphasizing that Africa’s full liberation and development can only be achieved through unity and protection of African lives across borders.
