Nigeria and Ghana Summon South African Diplomats Over Surge in Xenophobic Violence

South Africa, home to more than three million foreign residents—about 5.1 % of its population—has seen a sharp uptick in xenophobic incidents in recent weeks. Unemployment above 30 % fuels resentment, and protests have turned violent, targeting businesses and homes of non‑South Africans.

Nigeria’s foreign ministry summoned the South African ambassador in Abuja on Saturday, citing documented mistreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their enterprises. The acting high commissioner will meet Nigerian officials on Monday to discuss the incidents.

A week earlier, Ghana’s foreign ministry called in South Africa’s acting high commissioner in Accra after several xenophobic episodes against Ghanaians, including a confrontation in KwaZulu‑Natal where a legal Ghanaian resident was ordered to leave the country and “fix his country.” Ghanaian officials warned their nationals to stay indoors for safety.

South Africa’s acting police minister condemned the violence as unlawful and contrary to constitutional values of dignity and equality. He ordered police to intervene decisively, emphasizing that intimidation or looting will not be tolerated.

The diplomatic protests underscore growing regional tension. Over 63 % of South Africa’s foreign population comes from the Southern African Development Community, a bloc that includes both Nigeria and Ghana. Repeated attacks threaten trade, labor mobility, and diplomatic relations across the continent.

What it means: The summons signal that West African governments will press South Africa for stronger protection of foreign nationals. Expect heightened diplomatic dialogue and possible pressure on South African authorities to tighten security measures and address underlying economic grievances.

Watch for official responses from South Africa’s foreign ministry and any policy shifts aimed at curbing xenophobic violence in the coming weeks.