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President John Dramani Mahama has renewed Ghana’s call for the African Union (AU) to formally discuss the rising cases of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa.
The President made the remarks during bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the AU Extraordinary Summit held in Accra.
President Mahama said he was encouraged by the acknowledgement from AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on the need to table the issue for discussion at the next AU Summit.
According to him, Ghana’s position was clearly communicated to a special envoy sent by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during a meeting in Accra earlier in the week.
He stressed that Ghana does not harbour any hostility toward South Africa but remains concerned about attacks on Africans from other countries and the economic losses suffered as a result.
“Allowing this matter to remain unresolved will not address its root causes. It is important that the issue is brought before the AU so that member states can work together toward a lasting solution,” President Mahama said.
He added that placing the matter on the AU agenda would provide South Africa with a formal platform to present its perspective while allowing the continent to collectively address the challenge.
President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with all AU member states to promote unity, protect the dignity and safety of Africans, and safeguard investments across the continent.
Story by Efua Nessa