Ghana Postpones Ramaphosa’s Planned Visit Over Anti-Migrant Attacks
The Government of Ghana has postponed the planned visit of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following recent anti-migrant attacks targeting undocumented migrants and other African nationals in South Africa.
The decision comes after reports of violence and intimidation against foreign nationals sparked diplomatic concerns. In response, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Thando Dalamba, to express Ghana’s strong concern over the incidents. Ghana has also begun repatriating some of its citizens from South Africa.
Although reports claimed Ghana had rejected President Ramaphosa’s proposed state visit, the Ghanaian government clarified that the visit had only been postponed, not cancelled.
Speaking to Joy FM, Ghana’s Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, explained that both countries agreed the current tensions could overshadow the objectives of the visit.
According to him, the visit had been scheduled for early August 2026 before the outbreak of the attacks. However, Ghana informed South Africa through diplomatic channels that it would be more appropriate to defer the visit until the situation calms and the concerns surrounding the attacks are resolved.
He added that proceeding with the visit under the current circumstances would likely shift attention away from the important bilateral issues both countries intended to discuss.
Meanwhile, South Africa has denied reports that President Ramaphosa requested a state visit. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Pretoria had only sought confirmation from Ghana on arrangements for the third session of the Ghana–South Africa Bi-National Commission, which is expected to be jointly chaired by the presidents of both countries.
Despite the postponement, Ghana has reiterated that diplomatic relations between both countries remain cordial.
