ACCRA, April 23 (Xinhua) -- Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has urged Ghanaian nationals in South Africa to remain calm, reaffirming the government's commitment to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad.
The call by the foreign minister comes after a viral video surfaced on social media showing a South African woman leading a youth group to confront a Ghanaian resident, accusing him of overstaying and calling for foreigners to return to their home countries.
In a post on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Ablakwa disclosed that he had held a telephone conversation with his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola to address the situation.
"Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad. We are determined to guarantee the protection of all citizens," said Ablakwa.
The minister disclosed that his South African counterpart has expressed empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the incidents, adding that authorities in South Africa are expected to brief African ambassadors on the matter.
Ablakwa also revealed that Ghana's diplomatic mission in South Africa, led by High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie, has been actively coordinating a response and providing support to affected citizens.
"I am gladdened that so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well. No Ghanaian life has been lost," he added. ■
