– ACCRA, Ghana
The Government of Ghana has rejected a request for a state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa due to ongoing concerns regarding xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, including Ghanaians. According to Ghanaian officials, the planned visit was declined to avoid a public backlash while tensions remain high. The decision prioritizes the safety and security of Ghanaian citizens residing in South Africa.
This move follows the death of 40-year-old Ghanaian national Bashiru Isak on June 30, 2026, amidst a wave of violence against foreigners. Ghanaian authorities link this incident and other attacks associated with a resurgence of xenophobic tensions that intensified in May and June 2026, leading to the repatriation of many Ghanaians to the current situation. Accra has urged South Africa to strengthen protective measures for foreign nationals before high-level visits resume.
Ghanaian diplomatic sources have emphasized that this postponement does not harm overall bilateral relations, which remain strong in areas such as trade and cooperation. Officials describe this stance not as a diplomatic rift, but as a responsible demand for accountability and citizen safety, in line with Pan-African principles.
The South African Presidency has clarified that no formal request for a presidential state visit to Ghana was submitted. Communications between the two countries focused on the South Africa-Ghana Bi-National Commission, a routine mechanism. South Africa maintains that specific incidents, including Isak's death, are being investigated as criminal matters and are not necessarily linked to xenophobic protests.
This situation reflects the recurring challenges surrounding xenophobia in South Africa and its impact on relations with other African nations. Both countries have expressed their willingness to continue diplomatic dialogue, with the possibility of rescheduling the meetings once outstanding security concerns are addressed.