Ghana considers legal action against South Africa for compensation over xenophobic attacks – Ablakwa

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana is weighing the possibility of taking legal action against South Africa over recent xenophobic attacks that affected Ghanaian nationals.

He explained that government’s response is not limited to evacuation and immediate protection, but also includes seeking accountability and compensation for victims who suffered losses.

Speaking on Joy FM on Saturday, June 6, Mr. Ablakwa said Ghana has formally communicated its position to South African authorities and is expecting concrete measures to address the concerns of affected citizens.

“We are also considering formal legal action in competent international courts on this matter. We have made it clear that the matter does not end with the evacuation of Ghanaians. There has to be accountability and there has to be a price to pay,” he said.

He added that Ghana has demanded responsibility and compensation for victims, noting that the only response received so far relates to medical assistance for Ghanaians who were hospitalised.

“We have told the South Africans that we expect them to take responsibility and compensate our nationals. The only action we have seen on their part is with the Ghanaians who were hospitalised. They approached us that they are willing to take care of the medical bills,” he stated.

Mr. Ablakwa stressed that the protection of Ghanaian citizens abroad remains a key priority for government, adding that diplomatic engagements with South African authorities are ongoing to safeguard the welfare of affected nationals.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa has been a recurring challenge over the years, often linked to socio-economic tensions, with foreign nationals from several African countries periodically targeted, prompting widespread condemnation from governments and international organisations.