Xenophobic attacks: South Africa must do better — Dr. Oduro-Antwi
A cry across the continent
The news spread quickly, carried on the wings of social media—disturbing videos showing violence against foreign nationals in South Africa. Among the victims were Ghanaians, their stories echoing fear, confusion, and disbelief.
From Ghana, a voice rose in firm condemnation. Dr. Dominic Oduro-Antwi, President of the Global Africa Trade Advisory Chamber, did not mince words. To him, the scenes were more than isolated acts of violence—they were a betrayal of a shared African dream.
“This is totally unacceptable, unpardonable and shameful,” he declared, his frustration reflecting the sentiments of many across the continent.
The dream of a united Africa
For years, African leaders and institutions have championed unity through initiatives like the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area. These frameworks were designed to break down barriers, encourage trade, and foster a sense of belonging among African nations. But the images from South Africa told a different story—one of division rather than unity. Dr. Oduro-Antwi questioned how such violence could coexist with the ideals of integration. “This is not the Africa we want to see or build,” he said, emphasizing the widening gap between aspiration and reality.
Cracks beneath the surface
Xenophobic tensions in South Africa are not new. Over the years, waves of violence have flared up, often fueled by economic hardship, unemployment, and competition in informal sectors.
For many locals, frustration boils over into misplaced anger toward fellow Africans seeking opportunity. For migrants, hope often turns into vulnerability. Each incident chips away at trust—not only between communities but also between nations. What begins as local unrest soon becomes a continental concern.
A threat to trade and trust
Beyond the human cost lies another consequence: the erosion of economic cooperation. Dr. Oduro-Antwi warned that such attacks could strain trade relationships between South Africa and its African partners. The promise of AfCFTA—greater mobility, seamless trade, and shared prosperity—depends heavily on mutual respect and safety.
When people fear crossing borders, commerce suffers. When trust breaks down, agreements lose their meaning.
Calls for justice
In the wake of the incident, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry engaged South African authorities, seeking clarity and action. Dr. Oduro-Antwi went further, urging not only national governments but also continental bodies to act decisively. He called on the African Union and AfCFTA Secretariat to investigate the incidents and ensure accountability. Justice, he insisted, must be visible and swift. Without it, such acts risk becoming normalized.
One people, One continent
Despite the outrage, his message was not one of division but of unity.
“We have only one voice for Africa,” he said. “We are just one people living in one continent with diverse opinions.”
His words carried both warning and hope—a reminder that Africa’s strength lies in its diversity, but its future depends on solidarity.
A moment for reflection
As the continent watches, the question lingers: What kind of Africa will emerge from moments like this?
Will fear and division take root, or will unity prevail?
For Dr. Oduro-Antwi and many others, the answer must be clear. This is not the time for xenophobia. It is a time for growth, vigilance, and a renewed commitment to the ideals that bind Africa together.
