The Ghana government has asked its High Commission in South Africa to assist its citizens caught in the xenophobic attacks there.
A statement signed Sunday by Andrew Awuni, press secretary to the president, said President John Kufuor had directed the High Commission to give the necessary assistance to all Ghanaians in that country and arrange safe passage for those who desire to return home.
The statement said reports received from the High Commission indicated that some businesses belonging to Ghanaians had been attacked. About 70 Ghanaians took refuge with security agencies in South Africa.
Ghana’s lawmakers last week led a chorus of condemnation of growing attacks against foreigners in South Africa, saying they should recall how Africa stood by them and gave them sanctuary when they were fighting for their independence.
News of the attacks has shocked many Ghanaians who have described the South Africans as “ungrateful”.
The MPs who were contributing to a statement on the floor of the House to mark African Union Day which falls on Sunday pointed out that the xenophobia in South Africa did not speak well of the country and continent.
One of the major themes at AU summits for the past several years is for the continent to move quickly to achieve a United States of Africa, hence the need for all countries to accommodate their fellow Africans.
The MPs referred to the support given to South Africa in their struggle against the obnoxious apartheid policy and urged the government in Pretoria to protect the lives of foreigners and take measures to end the violent attacks. Panapress.
