Shatta Michy has condemned the wave of xenophobic attacks against Ghanaians in South Africa, describing the incidents as deeply troubling and contrary to the spirit of African unity.
The entrepreneur and media personality, born Michelle Diamond, shared her views at the Accra International Airport while receiving the second group of Ghanaian citizens evacuated from South Africa in the wake of the violence.
Reacting to the reports, Michy said it was disheartening to see Africans turning against one another despite their shared heritage and common aspirations.
“It is very unfortunate that Africans would do that to each other. We are all brothers and sisters, and this should not be happening,” she stated.
While lamenting the attacks, she praised the Ghanaian government for acting quickly to bring affected citizens home safely. She singled out Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and President John Dramani Mahama for their roles in coordinating the evacuation effort.
According to Michy, the government’s response demonstrated a commitment to protecting its citizens and gave her renewed confidence in her country.
“I, for one, am very proud to say I am a Ghanaian at this moment, so if we go to another country and we are not valued, you should know that you are very much valued at home,” she said.
She also appealed to Ghanaians to resist any calls for retaliation against South Africans residing in Ghana. Rather than demanding their removal, she urged authorities to focus on enforcing the country’s laws fairly and responsibly.
Michy further encouraged the returnees to embrace opportunities available to them back home and concentrate on rebuilding their lives after the difficult experience.
Her remarks come as Ghana continues to coordinate support for citizens affected by the unrest in South Africa, with efforts underway to facilitate their return and assist with their reintegration into society.
