The Chairman of the Ghanaian Community in Mthatha, South Africa, Dr Yirenyi Gyekye Darko, has raised fresh concerns about the safety of Ghanaians living in the country, warning that many remain vulnerable amid rising tensions targeting foreign nationals.
Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Dr Darko noted that while some areas have experienced relative calm, the broader situation remains unpredictable, with lingering hostility toward foreigners.
“Ghanaians are not safe. Other nationals, especially Nigerians and Zimbabweans, are also not safe. We are only trusting God for protection. For now, in the Eastern Cape, it is not as extreme as in other provinces, and there has not been recent harassment in Mthatha. But generally, the situation remains worrying,” he stated.
He explained that resentment toward foreigners is largely driven by claims that they are taking jobs meant for locals, describing this perception as the core source of tension.
“The only reason they give is that foreigners are taking their jobs. That is the main point of contention,” he added.
Dr Darko further urged Ghanaian authorities to intensify engagement with their South African counterparts to safeguard citizens abroad.
“We urge officials in Ghana to liaise with the High Commissioner in South Africa so that together they can help bring the situation under control,” he appealed.
His comments follow the circulation of a viral video on social media showing a South African woman leading a group of youth to confront a Ghanaian resident, accusing him of overstaying and demanding that foreigners return to their home countries.
In response, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has engaged his South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola, over the disturbing reports.
In a statement, Ablakwa disclosed that Lamola expressed empathy for victims and assured that authorities would conduct full investigations. He added that the South African government plans to brief African ambassadors on the matter.
Ablakwa also revealed ongoing communication with Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, as part of efforts to coordinate a swift and effective response.
