Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa has stepped up consular support for nationals in the country, assuring continuous communication and round-the-clock assistance amid concerns over xenophobic incidents. Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Thursday, April 23, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Anani Quarshie, announced the establishment of a dedicated 24-hour hotline to enable Ghanaians to reach consular officers at any time for assistance and updates.
He explained that the mission is providing nationals with verified information as developments unfold. “We keep apprising them every time we get new information. We have opened a dedicated line that officers are able to pick calls at midnight and at any time of the day to ensure that we deliver the consular services they deserve. The Ghanaian associations are well coordinated so that whatever information we provide is quickly relayed to the wider Ghanaian community here in South Africa,” he said.
According to him, the coordinated structure of Ghanaian associations in South Africa has made it easier to disseminate information quickly to citizens across different regions, helping to prevent panic and ensure timely responses to concerns. This comes as Ghanaian authorities continue diplomatic engagement with South African counterparts following reports and viral content suggesting isolated xenophobic incidents targeting foreign nationals, including Ghanaians in some parts of the country.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is also maintaining close contact with the mission in Pretoria and South African authorities as part of efforts to monitor the situation and provide consular protection. Meanwhile, Officials say no Ghanaian fatalities have been recorded.
Source: Juliana Odame Asare
