Former President John Mahama has stated that South African authorities did “little” to stop recent xenophobic violence. He said this inaction impacted many foreigners, including nearly 200 Ghanaians. These Ghanaians sought safety at Ghana’s embassy in South Africa.
Mr. Mahama spoke about the situation at Chatham House in London. He explained Ghana had to step in because its citizens were attacked. Attacks happened in Durban and other South African cities. Foreigners faced danger even in hospitals. People were reportedly asked to leave medical facilities if they were not South African.
This situation highlights ongoing challenges with xenophobia in South Africa. Such violence affects foreign nationals and their home countries. It can disrupt lives and economies. Ghana's decision to evacuate its citizens shows a practical response to protecting its people abroad. The economic impact on businesses and jobs for these expatriates is significant.
“It didn’t look like the South African authorities were doing anything to try to quell what was happening and also to provide protection to those who had been displaced,” Mr. Mahama stated. He described a "toxic atmosphere." Ghana organized evacuation flights because of the lack of local protection. One flight already departed. Two more were planned for those who wished to leave.
Mahama urged South Africa to address the root causes of this violence. He called for empathy and sympathy for South Africa. He said leaving foreign nationals unprotected was “unfortunate.” Ghana's government is now working to secure jobs for those evacuated. This demonstrates an effort to mitigate the economic consequences of the attacks on its citizens.