Ghana has reportedly declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing concerns over recent xenophobic violence in South...

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Ghana has reportedly declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing concerns over recent xenophobic violence in South Africa and the need to prioritise the safety of Ghanaian citizens. Ghanaian officials told DW that the planned visit, expected to take place in early August, was turned down to avoid possible public protests while tensions over attacks on foreign nationals remain high.

According to officials familiar with the matter, the Ghanaian government believes that proceeding with a high-level diplomatic visit at this time could provoke public opposition, as many Ghanaians remain concerned about the treatment of their compatriots living in South Africa. The officials said the decision was taken in light of the current public mood and ongoing concerns about the safety and dignity of Ghanaian nationals.

Sources within the Ghanaian government said Accra has urged Pretoria to take concrete action to prevent further attacks on foreign nationals before any future state visit is considered. The officials said Ghana wants stronger assurances that migrants living and working in South Africa will be protected and that those responsible for violence will be held accountable.

The reported decision comes as diplomatic relations between the two countries continue to face pressure following recent anti-immigrant violence in parts of South Africa. The unrest prompted Ghana to organise repatriation flights for some of its citizens, while other African countries, including Nigeria, Malawi and Mozambique, also assisted nationals wishing to return home.

South Africa has experienced recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with migrants from several African countries often targeted during periods of social and economic tension. Analysts say concerns over unemployment, crime and illegal immigration have contributed to repeated attacks on foreign nationals, although rights groups have consistently warned against blaming migrants for broader economic challenges.

President Ramaphosa has previously condemned xenophobic violence and pledged action against groups responsible for attacks on migrants. In a televised address last month, he said law enforcement agencies would act against individuals and organisations exploiting concerns about illegal immigration to promote violence and lawlessness. He also emphasised that enforcing immigration laws is the responsibility of the state rather than vigilante groups.

The South African government has also announced plans to strengthen immigration controls, improve border management and accelerate reforms aimed at addressing irregular migration while maintaining constitutional protections for all people living in the country. Officials have repeatedly stated that acts of intimidation and violence against foreign nationals have no place in South Africa’s constitutional democracy.

Reports indicate that President Ramaphosa’s proposed visit was expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to discuss bilateral relations, regional cooperation and concerns surrounding the treatment of African migrants in South Africa. However, Ghanaian officials reportedly concluded that postponing the visit would allow both governments to focus first on resolving issues affecting the safety of Ghanaian citizens.

The diplomatic development follows Ghana’s continued engagement with regional institutions over the issue. Earlier this year, Ghana called for discussions at the African Union on the treatment of African migrants in South Africa and urged stronger continental cooperation to address recurring xenophobic violence. South African authorities, however, have maintained that while isolated incidents have occurred, they reject claims that the country systematically targets foreign nationals.