South African Tourism condemns anti-immigrant attacks, reassures African travellers

South African Tourism has condemned recent anti-immigrant attacks in parts of the country and moved to reassure travellers from Ghana and across the continent following reports of cancelled bookings linked to protests and isolated incidents targeting foreign nationals. In a statement issued on 28th May 2026, the national tourism body said it is closely monitoring developments and working with government and tourism industry partners to protect traveller confidence and safeguard South Africa's standing as one of Africa's leading destinations. The organization wrote in the release, "These actions are unacceptable, do not reflect the values of our democracy, and stand in direct opposition to the spirit of Ubuntu that defines South Africa and its people."

The reassurance follows heightened concern in several African capitals, including Ghana, after images and reports of unrest circulated widely on social media. In some cases, the developments prompted diplomatic engagement, travel advisories and precautionary evacuation measures by some governments seeking to support affected nationals. South African Tourism acknowledged the impact of the incidents on traveller sentiment, particularly within Africa, where such developments can quickly influence booking decisions. The tourism authority stressed that the recent incidents were isolated and carried out by a minority, and should not be interpreted as representative of government policy or the views of most South Africans.

For Ghanaian travellers, the developments have attracted particular attention given the strong travel, business and cultural ties between the two countries. South Africa remains a popular destination for Ghanaians travelling for leisure, education, medical tourism, shopping, sports, entertainment, and visiting friends and relatives. It is also a key market for corporate travel, academic exchange, faith-based travel and professional services, with regular air connectivity linking Accra to major South African cities.