Charles Owiredu, a former Ghana High Commissioner to South Africa, says past efforts to curb xenophobia have failed. He is calling for a completely new approach to the problem. Mr. Owiredu spoke out on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, April 25. He believes repeating old strategies will not bring lasting solutions. This statement comes after a recent wave of attacks in South Africa targeting foreign nationals.
Mr. Owiredu explained that previous high-level meetings with South African officials did not solve the issue. He noted that while leaders in South Africa regularly condemn these acts, the attacks continue. These violent incidents often happen every year. He served as Deputy Foreign Minister and later as High Commissioner to South Africa. His experience shows him that old methods are not working.
This situation fits into a larger pattern of challenges for African economies. For example, foreign direct investment is crucial for job creation in Ghana. Such attacks can damage trade relations and scare away investors. Countries within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) often face similar issues with movement and safety of citizens. The African Union (AU) aims to promote unity and cooperation across the continent. However, tackling xenophobia requires more concrete actions beyond condemning violence.
Mr. Owiredu suggested a wider, coordinated response. He believes involving ECOWAS ambassadors and the AU is essential. "What the High Commissioner needs to do now is to involve the other ECOWAS Ambassadors and then get the AU," he stated. This is because the problem affects many countries, not just Ghana. "This is not only peculiar to Ghana. What is happening is not only directed at Ghanaians; all other countries are faced with this," he added. He believes this broad engagement can lead to a more lasting answer.
The implications of this ongoing issue are significant for regional stability. If diplomatic solutions do not work, economic ties could suffer further. Ghanaian businesses and citizens living abroad need assurances of safety. Policymakers in Ghana and across Africa will need to consider Mr. Owiredu's advice. They must explore new diplomatic and economic strategies. The next steps should focus on implementing a collaborative, multi-national response.