Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has renewed calls for the African Union (AU) to convene a continental discussion on the growing wave of anti-migrant violence in South Africa, warning that the recurring attacks threaten African unity and the principles of regional integration.
Mahama made the appeal amid renewed concerns over incidents of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, stressing that the issue requires a coordinated response from African leaders rather than isolated national interventions.
According to the Ghanaian leader, the recurring unrest undermines the vision of an integrated Africa and poses a serious challenge to the continent’s long-standing commitment to solidarity, free movement and peaceful coexistence.
He urged the African Union to place the issue on its agenda, arguing that member states must collectively address the root causes of anti-migrant sentiment while protecting the rights and safety of all Africans living and working across the continent.
Mahama noted that millions of Africans have migrated within the continent in search of employment, education and business opportunities, making it imperative for governments to guarantee their security regardless of nationality.
He cautioned that continued attacks on foreign nationals could weaken confidence in regional cooperation and undermine efforts to deepen economic integration under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Ghanaian president emphasised that the free movement of people, goods and services remains essential to Africa’s development agenda and should not be threatened by violence or discrimination.
He called on African governments to strengthen cooperation in tackling misinformation, unemployment and other socio-economic challenges that often fuel hostility toward migrants.
Mahama also urged political leaders across the continent to promote tolerance, inclusiveness and mutual respect, saying Africa’s diversity should be regarded as a source of strength rather than division.
His remarks come as South Africa continues to face criticism over periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence that have, over the years, claimed lives, displaced foreign nationals and damaged businesses owned by migrants from other African countries.
The attacks have frequently drawn condemnation from governments across the continent, civil society organisations and regional bodies, many of which have called for stronger measures to protect migrants and prosecute those responsible for acts of violence.
Analysts say the recurring unrest has strained diplomatic relations between South Africa and several African countries whose citizens have been affected by the attacks.
They argue that while economic hardship, unemployment and competition for limited resources are often cited as contributing factors, long-term solutions will require coordinated policy responses, public education and enhanced law enforcement.
Observers also note that the African Union has consistently advocated greater continental integration through initiatives promoting mobility, trade and cooperation, making the protection of migrants a critical component of its broader development agenda.
Mahama reiterated that Africa’s future depends on unity and collective action, urging AU member states to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at preventing further violence and strengthening mechanisms for the protection of migrants across the continent.
He expressed confidence that a continent-wide discussion under the auspices of the African Union would help reinforce shared values, promote peaceful coexistence and reaffirm Africa’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all its citizens, irrespective of where they reside.
