Abongile M

“No African should be dehumanised on African soil,” #Ghana writes to the African Union #AU, asking it to place the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa targeting other Africans on the agenda for the Heads of State and government meeting next month in Egypt “as a matter of urgent continental interest.” "It is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years. This development is especially concerning when viewed in the light of the longstanding solidarity demonstrated by African states in support of the struggle against apartheid and South Africa's subsequent democratic transformation. The targeting of nationals from African countries presents a challenge to the shared principles of African solidarity, brotherhood, and continental unity to which all Member States of the African Union are committed. In the considered view of the Government of Ghana, the prevailing situation of xenophobic attacks against African nationals, among other concerns: (a) Constitutes a clear violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, to which the Republic of South Africa is a State Party; (b) Undermines the spirit of integration and Pan-Africanism which envisions a united, prosperous, and peaceful continent; and (c) Runs counter to the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which seeks to promote free movement, reduce barriers, and foster a common market to the benefit of all Africans. Africa's future is one of shared dignity, prosperity, and mutual respect.”