The Coalition of Concerned Youth (CCY) has strongly condemned the recurring xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa and called for urgent action by African leaders and governments to protect the lives and properties of affected individuals.
Addressing a press conference, the Executive Director of the Coalition, Mr. Richard Boakye Mensah, expressed concern over what he described as persistent violence, harassment, and attacks targeting foreign nationals, particularly Ghanaians and Nigerians residing in South Africa.
According to him, although South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly condemned the violence and criminal acts against foreign nationals, the Coalition believes stronger measures are needed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Mr. Boakye Mensah urged the South African government to demonstrate its commitment to ending xenophobia by arresting and prosecuting individuals responsible for the attacks. He stressed that public condemnations alone would not be sufficient to address the growing concerns among African communities affected by the violence.
The Coalition further called on the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene by engaging South African authorities and taking appropriate measures to ensure the protection of foreign nationals living within the country.
CCY also appealed to the Government of Ghana and Parliament to take a firm stance on the issue and advocate for the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens residing in South Africa. The group warned that continued attacks could heighten tensions and negatively affect relations among African countries.
Touching on immigration concerns, Mr. Boakye Mensah called on Ghanaian authorities to enforce existing immigration laws by identifying and deporting foreign nationals, including South Africans, who are residing in Ghana illegally or have overstayed their permits.
The Coalition commended the Government of Ghana for facilitating the evacuation of hundreds of Ghanaians from South Africa and expressed readiness to support efforts aimed at reintegrating returnees into society.
Mr. Boakye Mensah noted that several South African-owned companies operate successfully in Ghana and benefit from the country’s economic environment. He therefore urged government to review bilateral economic arrangements if xenophobic attacks continue unchecked.
The Coalition emphasized the need for unity and mutual respect among African nations, stating that no African nationality should be subjected to discrimination, violence, or intimidation on the continent.
CCY reaffirmed its solidarity with all victims of xenophobia and called for peaceful and diplomatic solutions to the ongoing crisis while urging South African authorities to take immediate steps to restore confidence among foreign residents.
The press conference ended with a renewed appeal for African leaders to work collectively towards promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of human rights across the continent.
