Mahama urges African Union to confront xenophobic attacks in South Africa

President John Dramani Mahama has renewed Ghana’s call for the African Union (AU) to formally address the growing incidents of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa.

Speaking during bilateral talks on the sidelines of the AU Extraordinary Summit in Accra, President Mahama said he was encouraged that African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf had acknowledged the need to place the issue on the agenda of the next AU Summit.

The President said Ghana had already conveyed its concerns through official diplomatic channels and reiterated the country’s position during a meeting earlier in the week with a special envoy sent by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

According to President Mahama, Ghana’s concerns are not directed against South Africa but stem from the recurring attacks and the substantial losses suffered by citizens and businesses from across the continent.

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“We do not harbour ill will toward South Africa. However, we remain deeply concerned about the attacks and the significant capital losses suffered by people from various countries on the continent,” he said.

He warned that such incidents undermine the ideals of African unity and continental integration championed by the African Union.

“This undermines the very spirit of African solidarity and our collective efforts toward continental integration. Sweeping this matter under the carpet will not resolve its root causes,” the President stated.

President Mahama explained that Ghana had formally written to the AU Commission requesting that the issue be included on the agenda of the next summit.

He said placing the matter before the continental body would provide South Africa with an opportunity to present its perspective while enabling member states to work collectively towards a lasting solution.

“Let us remember that our strength as a continent lies in our unity. Ghana remains committed to working with all AU member states to find lasting solutions that protect the dignity, safety and investments of every African, everywhere on our continent,” he said.