The Ghanaian government has reportedly declined a request by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to undertake a state visit to Ghana amid growing concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting foreign African nationals in South Africa.
According to a report by Graphic Online published on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the decision follows a recent surge in attacks on foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, living in South Africa.
Citing diplomatic sources in both Ghana and South Africa, the report said the worsening security situation influenced the government’s decision to turn down the request.
It added that the attacks have forced the evacuation of several Ghanaians, while about 900 others are still awaiting repatriation.
The report said the Ghanaian government was concerned about the treatment of its citizens by anti-immigrant groups in South Africa and, under the current circumstances, could not approve a high-level state visit.
“The Ghanaian government was deeply concerned about the safety and dignity of its citizens in South Africa” and could not proceed with the visit “under the current circumstances,” the report quoted a source as saying.
Another Ghanaian source cited by Graphic Online said the government’s priority remains the protection of Ghanaians living abroad.
The source also indicated that concerns had been raised about President Ramaphosa’s own security, noting that the ongoing tensions could trigger negative public reactions during such a visit.
According to the report, Ghana has communicated its decision to the South African government and urged the authorities to address the xenophobic attacks and guarantee the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any future state visit is considered.
