South Africa to investigate harassment of Ghanaian in viral video – Ablakwa

South Africa has pledged full investigations into harassment claims involving a Ghanaian, Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed.

Mr Ablakwa said he held a telephone conversation with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, following widespread concern over a viral video showing alleged xenophobic abuse.

According to him, the South African government has responded with urgency and concern.

“The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” he stated.

He added that authorities in South Africa are taking further diplomatic steps, noting that “the Government of South Africa is set to hold a briefing with African Ambassadors later today.”

Mr Ablakwa also revealed that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa is actively managing the situation.

He said he has remained in close coordination with Ghana’s High Commissioner, Benjamin Quarshie, to ensure a swift and appropriate response.

“I am gladdened that so far colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well,” he noted, offering reassurance on the victim’s condition.

Providing further clarity, the Minister stressed that no Ghanaian fatalities have been recorded. “No Ghanaian life has been lost. We urge calm and confidence in our collective capacity to protect Ghanaians,” he said.

Background to the incident shows that a widely circulated video captured a group of South Africans confronting a Ghanaian and other African nationals, demanding proof of legal residency.

The individuals were pressured to justify their presence and were told to return to their home countries instead of seeking better opportunities abroad.

Mr Ablakwa emphasised government’s commitment to citizen safety, stating that the administration of John Dramani Mahama remains resolute.

“Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama Administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians both home and abroad,” he said.

He further appealed for unity across the continent, urging that isolated incidents should not undermine African solidarity.

“The overwhelming majority of Africans are united and share an unbreakable bond — we shall not be divided by the hatred of a few fringe elements,” he added.