Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has disclosed that the Ghanaian government is prepared to pursue compensation and possible legal action if any Ghanaian-owned businesses are unlawfully seized or interfered with amid escalating tensions against foreign nationals in South Africa.
Speaking during ongoing concerns over anti-immigrant demonstrations in parts of South Africa, Mr. Quashie assured affected Ghanaians that government remains committed to protecting their investments, livelihoods, and legal rights.
According to the High Commissioner, Ghanaian authorities are closely monitoring developments and gathering information on businesses allegedly targeted during the unrest. He emphasized that any seizure or destruction of Ghanaian-owned enterprises would not go unchallenged.
“We will pursue compensation or legal action where necessary,” Mr. Quashie reportedly stated while addressing concerns over attacks on foreign-owned shops and businesses.
The latest developments come as xenophobic tensions continue to rise in parts of South Africa, prompting Ghana to begin voluntary repatriation efforts for citizens seeking to return home. Government officials say the safety of Ghanaians remains a top priority amid reports of intimidation, business disruptions, and hostility toward migrants.
Recent evacuation exercises have already seen hundreds of Ghanaians return home from South Africa, with officials indicating that more citizens have registered for repatriation flights in the coming days.
Mr. Quashie noted that Ghana initially pursued diplomatic engagement with South African authorities in hopes that the situation would improve. However, he explained that persistent unrest and what he described as an “entrenched position” by some authorities left Ghana with little option but to intensify evacuation and protection measures.
The High Commissioner also rejected claims suggesting that most Ghanaian evacuees were undocumented migrants. He maintained that a significant number of Ghanaians living in South Africa possess valid documentation and have contributed positively to the South African economy over the years.
Analysts say Ghana’s tough stance on compensation could strengthen diplomatic pressure on South African authorities to better protect foreign nationals and businesses operating within the country. The issue has also reignited broader discussions about xenophobia, immigration policies, and economic competition in South Africa.
Despite the tensions, Ghanaian diplomats continue to encourage calm while working with South African authorities to safeguard lives and property. Government officials insist that while diplomatic relations between both countries remain important, Ghana will not hesitate to defend the rights and economic interests of its citizens abroad.
The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria is expected to continue engaging affected citizens while monitoring the evolving situation across South Africa.
