Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has engaged his South African counterpart following a viral video showing an alleged xenophobic attack on a Ghanaian in South Africa.
The widely circulated footage, which sparked concern online, prompted him to hold a telephone conversation with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
According to Ablakwa in a post on his facebook page, Lamola expressed sympathy and assured him that “full-scale investigations” have been launched into the incident.
He added that the South African government is expected to brief African ambassadors as part of efforts to address the situation.
Ablakwa said Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, has been in constant contact with authorities and is coordinating support for Ghanaian nationals.
He confirmed that the individual featured in the viral video has been identified and is receiving consular assistance, adding that the victim is “doing very well.”
Despite the incident, the minister indicated that no Ghanaian lives have been lost and urged calm among the public.
“Let me assure compatriots that the administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians both at home and abroad,” Ablakwa said, reaffirming the government’s position under the leadership of John Mahama.
He further stressed the need for unity across the continent, stating that “the overwhelming majority of Africans are united” and should not be divided by “the hatred of a few fringe elements.”
The development has renewed concerns about xenophobic violence in South Africa, with Ghanaian authorities pledging to continue monitoring the situation closely while working with their counterparts to ensure accountability and prevent further attacks.
CREDIT: Mavis Fantevi
