Ghana has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa until further notice following recent anti-migrant protests and attacks targeting foreign nationals.
In a statement published on June 1, the Ghanaian government said it has observed “with great concern, the increasing xenophobic attacks in South Africa targeted at Africans by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes, which have resulted in degrees of injuries, closure and takeover of businesses, looting and loss of properties”.
The government said it has taken several steps in response, including lodging formal diplomatic protests, summoning South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union and evacuating Ghanaian nationals.
“Ghanaian nationals in the country are urged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular services,” the statement said.
The advisory follows a statement issued by SA Tourism on May 28 in response to concerns linked to recent anti-migrant protests and incidents targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
SA Tourism said it notes, with concern, reports of cancelled travel bookings from several African countries following recent protests and incidents targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
The tourism body “unequivocally condemns all acts of intimidation, violence, discrimination and unlawful conduct directed at foreign nationals”, adding that such actions do not reflect the values of South Africa’s democracy and stand in direct opposition to the spirit of ubuntu that defines the country and its people.
SA Tourism said the recent incidents “do not represent the views of the overwhelming majority of South Africans nor do they reflect government policy” and reaffirmed that South Africa remains a safe, welcoming and accessible destination for all travellers from across the African continent and the world.
The organisation said law enforcement authorities are monitoring the situation and government continues to engage with affected communities to ensure stability, safety and social cohesion.
SA Tourism will continue working with government and industry stakeholders to promote responsible tourism, protect South Africa’s reputation as a destination and foster unity and mutual respect, the organisation added.
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