Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has condemned the xenophobic violence in South Africa. She called the attacks a "shameful dent" on the continent. The Second Deputy President of the Pan-African Parliament spoke on May 25, 2026. She is also the Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey.
These hostilities systematically target fellow Africans. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stated this at the African Union (AU) Day flag-raising ceremony. The event took place at the State House in Accra. She warned that this violence damages Africa's global standing. Recurring anti-immigrant violence weakens African leadership. The distressing images from South Africa harm the continent's image. Africa should be building its global influence. Instead, these events show a tragic step backward.
African Union Day, celebrated on May 25, marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963. This body later became the African Union. Its goal is continental unity. It also aims for economic integration and decolonisation. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings argued that these attacks question Africa's core unity. Our ancestors fought and sacrificed for this ideal. The continent cannot celebrate institutional progress. This happens while citizens are hunted by fellow Africans. She urged continental bodies to do more. They must enforce peace and human rights protections. This goes beyond mere diplomatic talk.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, echoed calls for change. He noted the relevance of Pan-Africanism. This ideology drives Africa's progress. It supports socioeconomic development. It also fuels industrial growth. However, Mr. Gyakye Quayson challenged AU organs. He stated the AU should not be just an ideology. It should not remain only in boardrooms. The AU must promote human dignity. It must deliver tangible economic development. It must ensure unwavering unity across regions.