‘We don’t want Africans here’ — Tensions rise in South Africa as anti-foreigner protests erupt
Viral videos circulating on social media have sparked fresh concerns over xenophobia in South Africa, showing confrontations and attacks targeting African immigrants, including a Ghanaian national.
In one of the clips, a group of South Africans is seen confronting a Ghanaian man, questioning his presence in the country and expressing frustration over migration within the continent.
“This thing of you guys moving from one country to another is no longer working,” a woman in the group said.
“We don’t want these African people anymore. We’re tired of migrants moving everywhere instead of fixing their own countries. We’re making it clear: we don’t want you here.”
She added that the man entered South Africa legally but accused him of attempting to settle permanently, insisting such actions were unacceptable.
Another individual in the video interrogated the Ghanaian over his travel documents, alleging fraud and compelling him to warn others to leave the country or risk being targeted.
In a separate clip, a man believed to be Ghanaian was reportedly assaulted, while another video showed a South African man filming himself at night, criticising foreigners for “living comfortably” while locals struggled.
“They can’t come here and take our sleep away. They must go back to their countries,” he said.
The videos began trending on Tuesday, heightening tensions ahead of planned protests in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, where residents are expected to demonstrate over concerns about foreign nationals and limited job opportunities.
Ghana calls for investigation
Samuel Ablakwa, Ghana’s minister for foreign affairs, described the incidents as “extremely disturbing” and confirmed he had spoken with Ronald Lamola.
According to Ablakwa, Lamola expressed sympathy for the victims and assured that a full investigation would be conducted.
He added that Ghana’s high commission in South Africa has identified the individual seen in one of the viral videos and is providing consular support.
“The victim is safe and doing well. No Ghanaian life has been lost,” Ablakwa said, urging calm while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
He also appealed for unity, stressing that isolated incidents should not undermine pan-African solidarity.
“The overwhelming majority of Africans remain united. We must not allow the actions of a few to divide us,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yirenyi Darko raised concerns about the safety of other African nationals, particularly Nigerians and Zimbabweans, ahead of the demonstrations.
“We are relying on God for protection. While the situation in Mthatha is not as severe as in other provinces, it remains worrying,” he said.
Darko advised Ghanaians in the area to remain cautious and take necessary safety measures as tensions continue to build.
