Dr Yirenyi Gyekye Darko, Chairman of the Ghanaian Community in Mthatha, has warned that Ghanaians in South Africa remain at risk, citing persistent tensions and growing hostility toward foreign nationals.

Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, he said that despite periods of calm in certain areas, uncertainty continues to cloud the overall security situation.

“Ghanaians are not safe. Other nationals, especially Nigerians and Zimbabweans, are also not safe. We are only trusting God for protection. For now, in the Eastern Cape, it is not as extreme as in other provinces, and there has not been recent harassment in Mthatha. But generally, the situation remains worrying,” he said.

Dr Darko attributed the tensions largely to perceptions that foreigners are displacing locals in the job market.

“The only reason they give is that foreigners are taking their jobs. That is the main point of contention,” he added.

He called on Ghanaian authorities to work closely with officials in South Africa to address the situation and ensure the safety of citizens.

“We urge officials in Ghana to liaise with the High Commissioner in South Africa so that together they can help bring the situation under control,” he appealed.

The concerns come after a viral video showed a South African woman confronting a Ghanaian resident alongside a group of youth, accusing him of overstaying and demanding that foreigners leave the country.

Following the incident, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, held discussions with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

According to Ablakwa, Lamola conveyed sympathy for those affected and assured that investigations would be launched. He also noted that a briefing with African ambassadors is being planned.

Ablakwa further indicated that he has been in constant contact with Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, to coordinate a prompt response to the situation.