The Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber (GSABC) has outrightly condemned the troubling wave of xenophobic violence and intimidation sweeping through parts of South Africa.
The Chamber says it is deeply concerned and disappointed over the disturbing images and reports surfacing online, which show foreign nationals, including members of the Ghanaian community, being targeted in hostile attacks.
Describing the incidents as “outright disrespect of human rights, the Chamber declared its unwavering support for Ghanaians who have raised their voices in defense of the safety and dignity of affected persons.
Moreover, the GSABC further emphasized that it is particularly distressing to see fellow Africans targeted solely based on their nationality, especially given the longstanding friendship and shared history between Ghana and South Africa.
To contribute to addressing the crisis, the Chamber says it has taken direct action by engaging with the South African High Commission in Ghana.
During these discussions, the GSABC called on the South African government to move beyond rhetoric and implement necessary measures to protect vulnerable communities and ensure the safety of all foreign nationals.
“The Chamber, with its members, categorically condemns these acts of violence and outright disrespect of human rights and fully support the expressions of concern by Ghanaians who have called attention to the plight of affected persons. These actions reflect genuine frustrations and a desire to see the safety, dignity, and rights of Ghanaians and all African nationals protected at all times,” the Chamber’s statement noted.
It added, “We commend the Government of Ghana for engaging the South African authorities through diplomatic channels and urge that these engagements continue with the urgency and seriousness the situation demands.”
Furthermore, the Chamber is demanding that perpetrators of these attacks be brought to justice under the laws of the Republic of South Africa to demonstrate that such violence will not be tolerated.
“The Chamber firmly believes that xenophobia has no place in Africa,” the statement read, reaffirming that the continent’s future is dependent on mutual respect, integration, and the principles of Pan-Africanism.
