Gov’t Receives Petition Against South African Mining Firms Over Xenophobic Attacks — Deputy Lands Minister Assures Protesters

Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, has assured protesters from the Ghana First Alliance that government will treat seriously their call to halt the renewal of mining licenses for South African-owned companies operating in Ghana.

The group marched in Accra Wednesday to present a petition demanding economic retaliation in response to ongoing xenophobic violence targeting African migrants in South Africa.

Receiving the document, Hon. Sulemana commended the demonstrators for their peaceful conduct. The convenor of the Ghana First Alliance read the petition aloud, urging authorities to “prioritize national interests over South African corporate investments” as a direct response to attacks on African nationals.

“Authorities must send a strong signal that the lives and dignity of Africans cannot be traded for business as usual,” the convenor told the Deputy Minister.

Hon. Sulemana accepted the petition and assured the group that the Mahama administration is committed to the matter.

“I want to commend you for the peaceful manner in which you have conducted yourselves. Government, under President John Dramani Mahama, is committed to this issue and will take your grievances seriously,” he said.

He did not commit to specific action on the licenses but noted that the concerns raised would be channeled to the appropriate agencies for review. “Your voice has been heard. We will look into the issues you have raised,” he added.

The protest reflects growing public anger and solidarity with African migrants facing targeted hostility abroad. The Ghana First Alliance argues that economic measures against South African-owned businesses in Ghana are a necessary stance against the violence.

South African firms hold significant interests in Ghana’s mining sector. The group is demanding that government suspend or refuse license renewals until Pretoria takes concrete steps to protect African nationals.

No incidents were reported during the demonstration. The petition is expected to be forwarded to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission for further action.