Ghana Calls for AU Debate on South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

Ghanaian President John Mahama urged an African Union debate on Thursday to formally address the escalating xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa. He said the rising hostility toward undocumented migrants has prompted a mass exodus, with more than 160,000 foreign residents leaving the country in the last two months and several deaths reported.

Mahama highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that the attacks have intensified across several provinces and that the South African government has struggled to contain the violence. He called on AU member states to collaborate on a coordinated response, including stronger protection for vulnerable migrants and measures to curb hate-driven rhetoric.

The call comes amid growing international concern over the safety of migrant communities in Africa. If the AU convenes a debate, it could set a regional framework for preventing future xenophobic incidents and ensuring that the rights of foreign nationals are respected.