Civil society organisation Arise Ghana is urging the Government of Ghana to take a firmer stance against recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, including suspending the renewal of mining leases involving Gold Fields and reconsidering the presence of South African nationals in the country.
The group says these measures are necessary to defend Ghanaian citizens abroad and signal strong disapproval of recurring violence against African migrants.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Arise Ghana Secretary Richard Kasu-Adzadu said the organisation is alarmed by repeated attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa, including Ghanaians, describing the situation as a violation of African Union principles and human rights standards.
He said many Ghanaians living in South Africa continue to face intimidation, destruction of property and insecurity, despite past diplomatic engagements aimed at addressing the issue.
While acknowledging government efforts to evacuate affected citizens, including about 300 Ghanaians recently repatriated, the group argued that stronger action is needed at both diplomatic and economic levels to prevent further incidents.
Arise Ghana called for the use of African Union accountability mechanisms, including legal action through regional human rights institutions, to ensure justice and protection for victims of xenophobic violence.
The organisation also proposed a review of strategic economic partnerships with South African-linked companies, insisting that Ghana should prioritise indigenous firms in key sectors such as mining to safeguard national interests.
It further argued that continued economic cooperation should be reconsidered if Ghanaian citizens continue to face hostility abroad, describing reciprocity and respect as essential to bilateral relations.
The group appealed to other civil society organisations and stakeholders to support its position, adding that Africa’s unity must be built on mutual respect and protection of citizens across borders.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives of Gold Fields had not yet responded to the call at the time of publication.
