Ghanaians advised against non-essential travel to South Africa over Xenophobic attacks

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised Ghanaians to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa following a rise in xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in the country. The advisory was issued on Monday, June 1, 2026, and the Government of Ghana expressed concern over reports of attacks allegedly carried out by groups presenting themselves as anti-immigrant vigilantes. According to the Ministry, "The Government of the Republic of Ghana 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 indicated that it has already taken several diplomatic steps in response to the situation, including lodging formal protests at the highest diplomatic level, summoning South Africa's Acting High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union and facilitating the evacuation of some Ghanaian nationals. Ghanaian citizens have been urged to exercise extreme caution and reconsider travel plans to South Africa, and those currently residing in South Africa are encouraged to maintain regular contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular assistance and support.

Government further assured citizens that it would continue working with South African authorities to facilitate the safe evacuation of Ghanaians who wish to return home. Ghana called on the South African government to provide adequate protection for Africans living within its borders and take decisive steps to restore law and order, urging them to "provide adequate security for targeted groups of Africans in its territory and take measures to enforce law and order in the spirit of genuine Pan-Africanism and African integration." The government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Ghanaian nationals both at home and abroad.