Pretoria has dispatched International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola to Accra to patch up fracturing diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The sudden diplomatic mission follows weeks of escalating tension after Ghana abruptly postponed a high-level visit from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Accra delayed the summit to protest recurring outbreaks of anti-immigration violence and the destruction of African-owned businesses in South Africa.
Operating under a canopy of quiet diplomacy, Lamola met with Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama to directly address the widening rift.
During the bilateral talks, Mahama firmly reiterated Ghana’s deep anxieties regarding the safety of its citizens and their foreign investments.
The Ghanaian leader emphasized that sweeping these systemic xenophobic attacks under the carpet would no longer resolve their root causes.
Consequently, Ghana has formally requested the African Union to place the delicate security issue onto the upcoming continental summit agenda.
Mahama argued that a continental platform gives South Africa a constructive space to share perspectives and find a lasting solution.
Meanwhile, Lamola defended his nation by stating that Pretoria categorically rejects all forms of racism, homophobia, and targeted violence.
The South African envoy further maintained that the regional powerhouse remains fully committed to upholding the rule of law.
However, the persistent unrest threatens broader economic cooperation just as the continent pushes for deeper trade integration under the AfCFTA.
Pretoria hopes this personal outreach signals clear intent to address regional concerns and rescue its standing as a continental leader.