The Government of Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union (AU) to place the recurring xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa on the agenda of the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the continental body.
In a statement released, the Government expressed that this development is especially concerning when viewed in the light of the longstanding solidarity demonstrated by African states in support of the struggle against apartheid and South Africa’s subsequent democratic transformation.
However, while fully acknowledging the sovereignty of the Republic of South Africa and its primary responsibility to protect all persons within its territory, the targeting of nationals from African countries presents a challenge to the shared principles of African solidarity, brotherhood, and continental unity to which all Member States of the African Union are committed.
In the considered view of the Government of Ghana, the prevailing situation of xenophobic attacks against African nationals, among other concerns:
“This Constitutes a clear violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which the Republic of South Africa is a State Party.
“Undermines the spirit of integration and Pan-Africanism which envisions a united, prosperous, and peaceful continent.
“Runs counter to the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which seeks to promote free movement, reduce barriers, and foster a common market to the benefit of all Africans,” it said.
In this regard, the Government of Ghana respectfully requests the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, acting under the authority of the Chairperson of the African Union, to consider the following measures during the proposed African Union deliberations:
“The inscription of this matter on the agenda of the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union in accordance with the rules of procedure.
“The strengthening of African Union monitoring mechanisms to support Member States in upholding their obligations under the Constitutive Act of the African Union and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights;
“The establishment of a fact-finding mission to examine the underlying causes of xenophobic violence in South Africa and to recommend appropriate remedial interventions to the African Union.
“The facilitation of dialogue and reconciliation initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance, inclusion, integration, and renewed commitment to continental unity among African peoples.
The Government of Ghana firmly believes that, notwithstanding the painful legacy of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid, Africa’s future is one of shared dignity, prosperity, and mutual respect.
As Ghana’s founder and renowned Pan-Africanist Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah consistently proclaimed, the full potential and emancipation of Africa can only be achieved when Africa unites.
That aspiration begins with a collective resolve to ensure that no African is dehumanised on African soil.
