Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa has urged Ghanaian nationals in South Africa to remain calm, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad.
The call by the foreign minister came after a viral video surfaced on social media showing a South African woman leading a youth group to confront a Ghanaian resident, accusing him of overstaying and calling for foreigners to return to their home countries.
On his facebook handle, Ablakwa disclosed that he had held a telephone conversation with his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola to address the situation.
“Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad.
“We are determined to guarantee the protection of all citizens,” said Ablakwa.
The minister disclosed that his South African counterpart had expressed empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the incidents.
He added that authorities in South Africa were expected to brief African ambassadors on the matter.
Ablakwa also revealed that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, led by High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie, has been actively coordinating a response and providing support to affected citizens.
“I am gladdened that so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance.
“He is doing very well. No Ghanaian life has been lost,’’ he added. (Xinhua/NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
