By Hannah Dadzie
The Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber (GSABC) has called for unity and a decisive rejection of xenophobia across the continent, stating that targeted violence and discrimination have “no place in Africa”.
“The Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber firmly believes that xenophobia has no place in Africa,” the statement said.
The Chamber condemned recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging unity, tolerance and respect among African nations as diplomatic efforts continue to address the situation.
In a statement signed by its President, Tony Sekyere, the GSABC stressed that constructive engagement, respect for the rule of law and sustained diplomatic dialogue remain the most effective means of addressing such challenges.
The Chamber expressed concern about the impact of the attacks on individuals, families, businesses and communities, noting that xenophobia undermines the spirit of African solidarity and integration.
It further emphasised that the continent’s future depends on greater cooperation, integration and mutual respect among its people.
“Our continent’s future depends on greater cooperation, integration and mutual respect among its people. The principles of Pan-Africanism, which have historically united our nations, must continue to guide our collective response to issues that threaten African solidarity,” the statement added.
The GSABC said the principles of Pan-Africanism should continue to guide collective efforts to address threats to unity and peaceful coexistence across the continent.
The Chamber also expressed solidarity with victims of xenophobic violence and extended its sympathies to affected families and communities.
It reaffirmed its commitment to working with governments, diplomatic missions, business leaders and civil society organisations to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and stronger people-to-people relations between Ghana and South Africa.
The statement comes amid ongoing concerns over reported xenophobia-related incidents that recently led to the evacuation of hundreds of Ghanaian nationals from South Africa.
Calling for calm and unity, the Chamber urged Africans to reject division and embrace the values of dignity, mutual respect and solidarity.
“At this critical moment, we call upon all Africans to reject division and embrace the values of unity, dignity and mutual respect that bind us together as one people and one continent,” the statement said.
The Chamber expressed confidence that strengthened cooperation among African governments, businesses and citizens would help preserve the vision of a united and prosperous Africa.
The Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber is an organisation established to promote trade, investment and cultural relations between Ghana and South Africa. Its membership spans sectors including mining, trade, financial services, real estate and construction, energy, health, legal services, hospitality, engineering, agro-processing, manufacturing, ICT, education, aviation and shipping.
