Ghana Cancels Ramaphosa State Visit Over Killing of Citizen in South Africa’s Xenophobic Attacks

Fresh diplomatic tensions have emerged between Ghana and South Africa after the Ghanaian government declined to host President Cyril Ramaphosa for a planned state visit, citing concerns over the reported killing of a Ghanaian citizen and alleged xenophobic attacks against its nationals.

President Ramaphosa had been expected in Ghana during the first week of August for a state visit aimed at reinforcing the longstanding relationship between both countries. However, Ghanaian authorities indicated that the prevailing situation made it difficult to proceed with the visit until issues surrounding the reported killing and the welfare of Ghanaian citizens were adequately addressed.

The decision follows the death of 40‑year‑old Bashiru Isak, whom Ghana says was killed during demonstrations associated with renewed attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa on June 30, 2026. According to Ghanaian officials, Isak was shot dead during what they described as “anti‑immigrant demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks” in Cape Town’s Khayelitsha township.

As part of its response, the Ghanaian government has formally protested to South African authorities over Isak’s death and expressed broader concerns about the safety of Ghanaians living in the country. Ghana also petitioned the African Union over the killing, describing the incident as a senseless act of xenophobic brutality.

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South Africa has rejected that account, insisting that Ghana’s claims are inaccurate. Authorities in Pretoria said no fatalities were recorded during the June 30 demonstrations. South Africa’s Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, accused Ghanaian authorities of circulating incorrect information capable of damaging South Africa’s reputation. “It is concerning that Ghanaian authorities continue to communicate false information about South Africa regarding developments on irregular migration,” she said in a statement. “The spread of false information to perpetuate the false narrative that South Africa is xenophobic is unacceptable,” she added.

The disagreement has placed renewed attention on the safety of African migrants in South Africa, where previous incidents of violence against foreign nationals have repeatedly drawn concern from governments across the continent. In May, Ghana petitioned the African Union over the recurring xenophobia in South Africa, urging action and a fact‑finding mission to address attacks on foreigners.

Although the latest dispute has strained relations, Ghana and South Africa remain two of Africa’s closest diplomatic and economic partners, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, regional integration and continental affairs. Officials from both countries are expected to continue diplomatic engagements as efforts are made to resolve the disagreement and preserve their longstanding bilateral ties.

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