A Ghanaian national has been shot dead in Cape Town, South Africa, as a fresh wave of anti-immigrant violence continues to spread across parts of the country, raising new concerns over the safety of foreign nationals.
The victim, identified as a Ghanaian tailor who had reportedly lived and worked in South Africa for about two decades, was killed during protests linked to a nationwide anti-immigration campaign that turned violent on Tuesday.
The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria confirmed the incident and said arrangements were underway to repatriate the body to Ghana. According to the Ghana High Commission, the victim was inside his shop when he was shot during unrest targeting businesses owned by foreign nationals.
Officials said the deceased leaves behind three children, with the eldest reported to be 10 years old. The mission added that it is working with the family and South African authorities to facilitate the return of his remains for burial in Ghana. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
Anti-Immigrant Protests Escalate
The killing comes as South Africa experiences one of its largest waves of anti-immigration demonstrations in recent years.
Police said more than 900 people were arrested during nationwide protests over offences including public violence, looting, robbery and immigration-related violations. Authorities also confirmed that several violent incidents occurred during the demonstrations, including fatal shootings and attacks on businesses owned by foreign nationals.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that the protests have fuelled xenophobic attacks, forcing thousands of migrants to flee their homes or seek shelter in safer areas. The latest incident follows months of diplomatic engagement between Ghana and South Africa over the safety of Ghanaian citizens.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, advised Ghanaians to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa because of rising anti-foreigner violence. The government also approved the evacuation of hundreds of Ghanaian nationals who requested assistance to return home.
Ghana has also petitioned the African Union to place the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa on its agenda, describing the violence against African migrants as a matter requiring urgent continental attention.
Calls for Justice and Protection
The death of the Ghanaian businessman is expected to intensify calls for stronger protection of foreign nationals living in South Africa.
South African authorities have pledged to investigate acts of violence and prosecute those responsible for criminal offences committed during the protests. Government officials have also reiterated that immigration enforcement should remain the responsibility of the state rather than vigilante groups.
Meanwhile, Ghanaian officials are expected to continue engaging their South African counterparts as investigations into the shooting continue.
The incident adds to growing concern over the resurgence of xenophobic violence in South Africa, where recurring attacks on migrants have periodically strained diplomatic relations and renewed calls for lasting solutions to protect vulnerable communities.
