Attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa Spark Outrage
Dr Oduro-Antwi urges accountability and warns of impact on African unity and trade
- Oduro-Antwi condemns attacks as “shameful”
- Ghana engages South African authorities
- Concerns raised over impact on trade and unity
Reports of attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa have drawn strong condemnation from Dominic Oduro-Antwi, who described the incidents as deeply troubling and harmful to Africa’s unity agenda.
The President of the Global Africa Trade Advisory Chamber reacted to viral videos allegedly showing violence against foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, urging swift action if the footage reflects real events. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already engaged authorities in South Africa over the matter.
Dr Oduro-Antwi warned that such incidents contradict the goals of continental cooperation under frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Union, which promote integration, trade, and free movement across Africa. He stressed that violence against fellow Africans undermines these efforts and damages the image of a united continent.
He further cautioned that recurring xenophobic attacks could strain diplomatic ties and negatively affect trade relations between South Africa and other African nations. Similar incidents in the past have often been linked to economic hardship, unemployment, and competition within informal sectors.
Calling for accountability, Dr Oduro-Antwi urged African institutions and South African authorities to investigate thoroughly and prosecute those responsible. He also emphasised the need for solidarity among Africans, warning that xenophobia threatens the continent’s shared progress and future.
