South Africa Deems Ghana’s Initiative for AU Debate on Anti-Immigrant Violence as ‘Unfortunate’
Pretoria – In reaction to Ghana’s request for a discussion at the African Union (AU) regarding what it termed “xenophobic attacks” on African nationals, South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to solidarity, adherence to the rule of law, and the safety of all individuals residing within its borders.
Ghana has urged that this matter be included in the agenda of the upcoming AU Mid-Year Coordination Summit in Cairo, set for 24 June 2026.
While Pretoria recognized certain isolated incidents earlier this month involving conflicts with immigrants, including those from other African countries, it expressed disappointment over Ghana’s choice to escalate concerns about irregular migration to the AU.
The South African government quickly condemned these actions and directed law enforcement agencies to operate within legal boundaries to ensure safety and hold perpetrators accountable.
During the Freedom Day celebrations on 27 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa strongly denounced vigilante actions and reiterated support for fellow African nations.
“We did not achieve our freedom in isolation,” President Ramaphosa reminded the people of South Africa.
“We were backed by a wave of solidarity from various African countries.
“These nations welcomed our liberation fighters, shared their resources, and provided us with shelter.
“They advocated for us when we were unable to speak for ourselves. The leaders and citizens of Africa sustained our struggle.
“It should never be that we undermine the African unity that enabled our freedom.
“We are a people grounded in the values of ubuntu. We must not let genuine concerns about illegal migration fuel prejudice against our fellow Africans.
“We must ensure these concerns do not lead to xenophobia directed at people from other African countries or elsewhere. Instead, we should insist on maintaining and enforcing the law.”
SA International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has since engaged with African foreign ministers and ambassadors, including those from Ghana and Nigeria, to assure them that the incidents are being adequately addressed.
However, Minister Lamola dismissed assertions that nationals from these countries were killed during the protests, stating: “There is no credible evidence to support this conclusion at this time.”
Lamola warned against manipulated footage and false videos circulating on social media.
In a statement shared with The Bulrushes on Friday, 8 May 2026, Minister Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to Pan-Africanism, ubuntu, and unity while highlighting the strong bilateral relationships with Ghana and Nigeria facilitated through Bi-National Commissions.
Minister Lamola urged colleagues to utilize these frameworks to address migration challenges and implement early warning systems.
South Africa noted it hosts around three million migrants, with 90 percent originating from the continent, making it the largest host of African immigrants.
While integration efforts have largely succeeded, tensions have surfaced 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 propose 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 spirit,” Minister Lamola stated.
“Our commitment is to solidarity, adherence to the rule of law, and the safety of all individuals within our borders.
“Migration must be managed through collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to continental responsibility.”
The South African government concluded by expressing a readiness for dialogue but characterized Ghana’s attempt to escalate concerns to the AU as unfortunate.
If the issue is placed on the AU agenda, South Africa intends to propose a broader discussion on the root causes of migration, emphasizing governance, democracy, and the rule of law.