Four Ghanaians die in South Africa xenophobic violence – Minister

Between April and July 2026, four Ghanaians lost their lives to xenophobic violence in South Africa, according to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The Minister detailed the government's response to the attacks and the completion of the evacuation process during a media briefing in Accra. The killings occurred throughout the country, with anti-foreigner sentiment rising since April 2026.

The Minister attributed the violence to vigilante groups, "March and March" and "Operation Dudula", which initially aimed to clean up cities but targeted African nationals instead. Anti-immigration groups in South Africa called for foreign nationals to leave by June 30, 2026, a demand that had devastating consequences. Four Ghanian nationals were killed, including Mr Amoonu Jailor Nash in East London on April 3, Mr Bashiru Issahaq in Khayelitsha, Cape Town on June 30, Mr Kwadwo Antwi in Prieska on July 18 and Mr Ebenezer Ayi Tawiah in Accra on August 17.

Ghana pursued diplomatic and legal measures to hold those responsible accountable. The government evacuated 1,964 Ghanaians between May 27 and September 4, prioritizing children, the sick, the elderly, and women.