John Mahama Calls for African Union Dialogue on South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

John Mahama Calls for African Union Dialogue on South Africa Xenophobic Attacks

John Mahama South Africa xenophobic attacks have once again become a major topic across Africa after the former Ghanaian president urged the African Union (AU) to take immediate action over the recurring violence against foreign nationals in South Africa.

Mahama believes the issue deserves urgent continental attention and warned that remaining silent could weaken Africa’s vision of unity, cooperation, and regional integration.

Mahama Calls for Open Continental Dialogue

Speaking on the issue, former President John Mahama stressed that xenophobic attacks in South Africa should no longer be ignored. According to him, African leaders must openly discuss the crisis through the African Union instead of treating it as an isolated domestic matter.

He argued that Africa has invested heavily in promoting unity among member states, and continued attacks on foreign nationals threaten the progress made toward achieving continental integration.

Meeting With South African Delegation

Mahama disclosed that he recently received a delegation sent by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss the growing concerns surrounding the attacks.

While emphasizing that Ghana holds no hostility toward South Africa, Mahama said the discussions should extend beyond bilateral engagements. He believes the African Union provides the appropriate platform for South Africa to explain the measures it is taking to protect foreign nationals living within its borders.

According to him, bringing the matter before the continental body encourages transparency, accountability, and collective solutions.

Concerns Over Continued Violence

One of Mahama’s strongest concerns is the perceived lack of accountability surrounding the attacks.

He noted that individuals believed to be financing or organizing the violence are reportedly known to authorities but continue to operate without facing justice. This situation, he argued, has created an atmosphere of impunity that allows xenophobic violence to persist.

Mahama warned that unless those responsible are held accountable, the attacks are likely to continue, putting more innocent lives and businesses at risk.

Appeal to the African Union

The former president concluded by calling on the African Union to formally acknowledge and table the petition regarding the xenophobic attacks.

He believes direct dialogue among African leaders is the most effective path toward addressing the root causes of the violence and ensuring lasting protection for all Africans living and working across the continent.

Mahama also reiterated that stronger cooperation between African governments is essential to preserving the ideals of unity, peace, and free movement envisioned under the African Union.

Why This Matters

The recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa have raised concerns across the continent for years, affecting citizens from several African countries, including Ghana.

Mahama’s call for urgent dialogue reflects growing demands for a coordinated continental response that balances national security with the protection of migrants and the promotion of African solidarity.

As discussions continue, many will be watching to see whether the African Union takes formal steps to address the issue and encourage stronger cooperation among member states.