The President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, has asked Ghanaians to stay calm.
This is in response to xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Some Ghanaians have called for action against South African businesses in Ghana. Most Rev. Gyamfi warned that such actions could worsen tensions across Africa. He believes it would damage unity and peaceful living on the continent.
Most Rev. Gyamfi urged citizens not to react with anger. He advises against targeting South Africans or their businesses. He stated that such reactions could create a dangerous cycle. The Catholic leader believes the situation in South Africa is a misunderstanding. He appealed for calm and a focus on unity, not vengeance. Bishop Gyamfi emphasized that African nations must live and work together.
He pointed out that Ghanaians live and run businesses in South Africa. Similarly, South Africans operate businesses in Ghana. He stressed the importance of unity and love between these nations. The Bishop acknowledged that problems can happen. However, he cautioned against letting isolated incidents define relationships between countries. He described these as aberrations, not the norm.
Most Rev. Gyamfi expressed sadness that Africans still focus on colonial divisions. He stated that colonisation created artificial boundaries. He lamented that these divisions are still emphasised instead of being overcome. The Bishop recalled past difficulties between Ghana and Nigeria. Both nations expelled each other's citizens at different times. He said these actions caused hardship and regret for both countries. He believes Ghana and Nigeria have learned from these mistakes. They are unlikely to repeat them.
The Catholic Bishops’ call comes as many Ghanaians have returned home from South Africa. Reports indicate that over 400 Ghanaians were expected to return by the weekend of May 29, 2026. These individuals are fleeing xenophobic attacks. The Ghanaian government is reportedly pursuing compensation for any seized businesses owned by Ghanaians in South Africa.