15 Critical Injuries and More: Ablakwa gives update on Ghanaians injured in Xenophobic attacks in SA

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided an update on Ghanaian nationals who were affected by recent attacks in South Africa, revealing that several victims remain in serious condition while discussions on compensation are ongoing.

According to him, at least 15 Ghanaians sustained severe injuries in the attacks, while one female victim remains in South Africa after doctors advised that her condition is too fragile for evacuation.

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Speaking on JoyNews Newsfile on June 6, 2026, he explained that Ghana is currently handling medical costs for victims who are still receiving treatment, as diplomatic engagements continue with South African authorities over possible compensation.

“In terms of the attacks, there are at least 15 serious cases, 15 very serious cases. As we speak, there is a lady who we have not been able to evacuate because doctors have advised that she's too fragile, the situation is too precarious to be flown out.

"So we have those serious cases. So there is some willingness to compensate when it comes to the harm caused to life and the personal injuries that are occasioned by the attack,” he said.

Ablakwa also disclosed that South African authorities have formally indicated readiness to cover the medical expenses of victims, although Ghana is still in consultation with the Presidency on whether to accept the offer.

“They have approached us formally that they are willing to take care of the medical bills. I'm yet to have a discussion with the president on that, whether the president will be willing to accept that.

“Those who were assaulted and vandalized, whose lives, as you know, are at stake in ICUs. We are taking care of the bills for now, but this is the very latest request that they have made, that they want to compensate. But we've asked that they hold on, so we have discussions,” he indicated.

He further noted that while there has been some engagement on medical support and compensation for injured persons, there has been no clear response regarding Ghanaian-owned businesses and properties left behind during the attacks.

“But in terms of the businesses, the assets they have left behind, there has been no response yet. But we have said that it is important to ensure that Ghanaians who have left businesses behind are compensated, and that these hoodlums know that, you see, you can't get away. It's important,” Ablakwa added.

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Ablakwa also described an incident involving local authorities in South Africa, which he said reflects the severity of the situation on the ground.

“There was this mayor who went around collecting keys, and then he turns to South Africa and says, ‘do you want this shop? Do you want this business? I can give you the key. You can take over’. I mean, it's a jungle,” he narrated.



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