South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation later Thursday, April 23, amid rising concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that the planned address is part of South African authorities’ efforts to calm tensions and reinforce respect for the rights and dignity of all residents.
Ghana has strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as “regrettable and unacceptable,” while acknowledging assurances from the South African government that investigations are underway and measures are being taken to contain the situation.
Ablakwa noted that President Ramaphosa’s intervention is expected to urge South Africans to uphold the principles of coexistence and protect foreign nationals living in the country.
He further expressed disappointment over the developments, stressing that such acts contradict the spirit of African unity, particularly given the historical role Ghana and other African nations played in supporting South Africa’s fight against apartheid.
The Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to demand firm action from South African authorities to guarantee the safety of Ghanaians, insisting that the host country has a duty of care to all lawful residents.
He also assured that Ghana remains committed to protecting South Africans living within its borders, ruling out any form of retaliation and reaffirming the country’s longstanding reputation for peace and hospitality.
“I also take note of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s pledge to address the country later today to urge that South Africans respect the rights and the dignity of all persons who are living with them.
“As Africans, as human beings, these developments are most depressing because as Africans, we all know the role we play in assisting South Africa to defeat the apartheid regime,” he said.
![Former Chief of Staff Frema Osei-Opare [right]](https://www.citinewsroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/FREMA--350x250.jpeg)
