Ghana has turned down a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing concerns over the safety of Ghanaian nationals amid a recent wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Diplomatic sources in Accra and Pretoria said the decision followed the repatriation of roughly 1,000 Ghanaians fleeing anti-foreigner violence, with hundreds more reportedly still awaiting evacuation. The situation escalated after a Ghanaian national was killed on June 30 during demonstrations by groups targeting African migrants.
A South African source said Ghana’s government felt proceeding with a high-level visit under current conditions would have been inappropriate, given concerns about the safety and dignity of Ghanaians living in South Africa. A Ghanaian source confirmed the decision, saying the protection of citizens abroad remains a non-negotiable priority for the government, alongside worries that a visit could draw an unwelcoming reaction given the volatile atmosphere and pose security risks for Ramaphosa himself.
Ghana has told South African authorities of its concerns and called for concrete steps to address the violence before any future visit is considered. Despite the rejected request, sources on both sides said relations between the two countries remain cordial, with both governments committed to their long-standing diplomatic ties.
