Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, says he has held urgent diplomatic talks with South Africa’s Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, over viral videos showing alleged xenophobic attacks on Ghanaians in South Africa.
In a statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Mr Ablakwa said he initiated a telephone conversation with his South African counterpart to address the incident and coordinate an official response.
“I called him on the trending videos about Ghanaians coming under extremely disturbing xenophobic attacks in South Africa,” he stated.
According to the Minister, the South African government has expressed concern over the situation and promised immediate action.
“The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” Mr Ablakwa said.
He disclosed that Pretoria is expected to brief African ambassadors later in the day as part of efforts to address concerns raised by affected countries.
Mr Ablakwa added that he has been in constant contact with Ghana’s High Commissioner in South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, to coordinate the response.
“I am also able to confirm that since yesterday, I have been in constant contact with Ghana’s High Commissioner in South Africa, His Excellency Benjamin Quarshie, coordinating our response,” he noted.
He said diplomatic teams have already located one of the individuals seen in the viral footage and provided consular assistance.
“I am gladdened that so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well,” the Minister stated.
He confirmed that no Ghanaian fatalities have been recorded in connection with the incident and urged the public to remain calm.
“No Ghanaian life has been lost. We urge calm and confidence in our collective capacity to protect Ghanaians,” he assured.
Reaffirming government’s commitment, Mr Ablakwa said the Mahama administration remains firm on protecting citizens both at home and abroad.
“Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama Administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad. We are determined to guarantee the protection of all citizens,” he said.
He called for continued African unity and cautioned against division.
“May these regrettable incidents never quench our Pan-African love and solidarity for each other. The overwhelming majority of Africans are united and share an unbreakable bond — we shall not be divided by the hatred of a few fringe elements,” he added.
