Ghana declines Ramaphosa’s planned state visit over killing of Ghanaian, xenophobic attacks
Ghana declines Ramaphosa’s planned state visit over killing of Ghanaian, xenophobic attack
The Government of Ghana has reportedly declined a planned state visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa following the killing of a Ghanaian citizen and renewed reports of xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in South Africa.
According to reports, President Ramaphosa was expected to undertake an official state visit to Ghana during the first week of August 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two African nations. However, the visit has been put on hold amid growing concerns over the safety of Ghanaians residing in South Africa.
The decision comes after the death of 40-year-old Bashiru Isak, who Ghanaian authorities say was shot and killed during demonstrations linked to anti-immigrant violence in South Africa on June 30, 2026. The incident has sparked outrage among Ghanaians, with many calling on the government to take a firm stance against the recurring attacks on African migrants living in South Africa.
Government sources indicate that Ghana has communicated its concerns to South African authorities and is seeking clear assurances that adequate measures will be taken to protect Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents. Ghana is also demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bashiru Isak’s death and the prosecution of those found responsible.
Officials are said to be of the view that proceeding with a high-profile state visit under the current circumstances could send the wrong signal, particularly at a time when many Ghanaian families are mourning and concerns over the safety of citizens abroad remain high.
The development is expected to place renewed focus on the long-standing issue of xenophobic violence in South Africa, which has, over the years, claimed the lives of several African migrants and strained diplomatic relations with countries across the continent.
Analysts believe Ghana’s decision reflects a broader call for African governments to work collectively toward ensuring the safety and dignity of all Africans, irrespective of their country of origin. They argue that stronger continental cooperation is needed to combat xenophobia and promote the ideals of African unity championed under the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency in Ghana nor the South African government had officially commented on the reported postponement of the visit. However, diplomatic engagements between the two countries are expected to continue as both sides seek a resolution to the concerns raised by Ghana.
The incident has reignited public debate over the protection of Africans living and working in other African countries, with many urging governments across the continent to adopt stronger measures against xenophobia and violence targeting foreign nationals.
