Ghanaian Migrant Workers’ Unions Condemn Xenophobia and Afrophobia in South Africa

ACCRA-GHANA,: The Migrant Labour General Workers’ Union International (MLGWUI) and the Migrant Workers’ Union of South Africa (MIWUSA) have condemned attacks targeting Ghanaian migrant workers and other African nationals in South Africa.

In a joint statement titled “Xenophobia/Afrophobia Attacks in South Africa and the Repatriation of Ghanaian Migrant Workers and Nationals,” the two labour organisations called for greater protection of migrant workers and respect for their fundamental rights.

The unions said migrant workers should be treated with dignity regardless of their nationality, while condemning xenophobia, Afrophobia, discrimination, violence and other forms of intolerance directed at migrant communities. “We strongly condemn xenophobia, Afrophobia, discrimination, violence, and all forms of intolerance directed at migrant communities,” the statement says.

The organisations called on governments, employers, trade unions, civil society organisations, community leaders and international partners to work together to promote social cohesion and protect vulnerable workers.

They also urged stakeholders to build an Africa founded on solidarity, human dignity, equality and respect for fundamental human rights.

The statement was signed by Comrade Justice Kaakyir Baako Ntarmah, General Secretary and Head of International Relations of MLGWUI-Ghana, and Comrade Mandla Masku, President of MIWUSA-South Africa.

The unions’ appeal comes amid concerns over the treatment and safety of African migrant workers in South Africa, with the organisations emphasising the need for stronger cooperation among African countries and labour movements to safeguard migrant workers’ rights.

The organisations further stressed that migration should not become a basis for discrimination or attacks against fellow Africans seeking employment and better livelihoods across the continent.