Gov’t reportedly turns down South Africa president visit

The Government of Ghana has reportedly declined a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following renewed xenophobic attacks against Ghanaian nationals in South Africa.

The visit was originally planned for August 2 to 4, 2026. However, information gathered by Today.com.gh indicates that the government decided not to proceed with the visit after assessing the deteriorating security situation confronting Ghanaians living in South Africa.

The reported decision comes amid a major diplomatic crisis between Ghana and South Africa following a wave of anti-immigrant protests and xenophobic violence targeting African nationals. Relations between the two countries have come under increasing strain over targeted harassment, mass evacuations and disagreements surrounding the reported fatal shooting of a Ghanaian.

Reports indicate that the recent attacks have forced the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians from South Africa, while another 900 Ghanaian nationals have registered to return home over growing safety concerns.

Reports also suggest that tensions intensified after a Ghanaian was reportedly killed on June 30 during demonstrations organised by anti-immigration groups in parts of South Africa.

Highly placed sources told Today.com.gh that the government’s decision was influenced by concerns over the safety and dignity of Ghanaian citizens in South Africa, making it inappropriate to host a high-level state visit under the prevailing circumstances.

The sources further indicated that officials also considered the potential security implications surrounding President Ramaphosa’s proposed visit, amid fears that public outrage over the attacks on Ghanaians could generate hostile reactions during his stay in Ghana.

According to reports, the protection of Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a top priority for the government, which believes the current environment does not provide a suitable atmosphere for a state visit.

Information gathered by Today.com.gh further indicates that Ghana has formally communicated its position to the South African government and urged authorities in Pretoria to take concrete measures to halt the xenophobic attacks and guarantee the safety of Ghanaian nationals before the visit can be reconsidered.

Despite the reported diplomatic setback, reports suggest both countries remain committed to preserving their longstanding bilateral relations, with expectations that engagements at the highest level could resume once the security concerns affecting Ghanaian citizens in South Africa have been adequately addressed.