The government has declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, citing rising xenophobic violence in South Africa that has left hundreds of Ghanaians displaced and one national dead.
According to Daily Graphic’s diplomatic sources in Accra and Pretoria, the unrest has forced the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians, with another 900 currently registered to return home.
The violence peaked on June 30 when xenophobic groups staged large demonstrations against African migrants.
The decision has sparked a diplomatic disagreement. South African authorities have rejected Ghana’s claim that the Ghanaian was killed during the June 30 protests.
Officials in Pretoria told Daily Graphic the victim was shot on June 29 in a suspected extortion-related attack at a barbershop in Nyanga, Cape Town, and was not linked to the demonstrations.
South Africa’s Ministry of Justice has condemned Ghana’s statements as “factually incorrect”.
Accra says it cannot proceed with the visit scheduled for August “under the current circumstances”.
The government maintains that the safety and dignity of Ghanaians abroad is non-negotiable.
Officials also cited concerns about security implications for President Ramaphosa and fears that his reception could spark unwelcoming public sentiment.
The position has been conveyed to Pretoria, with a demand for concrete steps to address the attacks and guarantee the security of Ghanaian nationals before any visit can be honoured.
Despite the standoff, officials insist relations between the two countries remain cordial.
