By Amoako Kwame
The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has advised Ghanaians living in South Africa to remain extra vigilant ahead of planned protests concerning immigration issues.
This follows reports and viral videos of xenophobic attacks directed at foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, in certain parts of the country.
In a notice released on Tuesday, April 28, the mission urged Ghanaians—especially those in Pretoria—to put their safety first as a group known as the March Organisation plans to march to the Presidency to present its concerns.
“I urge everyone to continue exercising heightened vigilance and to place the highest priority on personal safety during this period,” the statement said on behalf of the High Commissioner, Benjamin Anani Quashie.
The High Commission specifically urged Ghanaian shop owners to close their businesses for the day and stay away from areas where protests are expected.
“Shop owners are strongly encouraged to close their businesses for the day and avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are taking place,” it said.
It also warned nationals against joining any public gatherings that could potentially turn confrontational.
“Please refrain from participating in public gatherings that could escalate into confrontation,” the statement added.
Ghanaians were further advised to maintain a low profile and act with discretion both in public and online, including avoiding the sharing of content that could be seen as provocative or inflammatory.
The High Commission indicated that it will continue to issue updates as the situation unfolds.
