AN EXAMINATION OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF XENOPHOBIC VIOLENCE ON GHANAIAN MIGRANTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

ABSTRACT

There have been numerous cases of xenophobic violence on foreign nationals in recent years in South Africa. Grounded on this preposition, this dissertation examined the socio-economic effects of xenophobic violence on Ghanaian migrants in South Africa. Furthermore, an understanding of diplomatic relations and dynamics were explored between various countries and migration dynamics between nationals of the different countries. The research employed qualitative approach, using a snowballing sampling technique and semi-structured interviews, to collect the required primary data from the target population, who were Ghanaian nationals resident in South Africa. The data was then analysed manually, interpreted and categorised into themes. The findings of the study are discussed under themes and sub-themes which include the relationship dynamics between South African nationals and Ghanaians in South Africa, the causes of xenophobia/xenophobic violence in South Africa, experiences of Ghanaian foreign nationals within South Africa, socio-economic effects of xenophobic violence in South Africa, migrants’ perception of the South African authorities with regards to xenophobic violence against Ghanaian foreign nationals, migrants view on Ghana’s government in response to the xenophobic violence, the relationship between Ghana’s government and the South African government, and migrants perceptions on what could be done/interventions to stop and discourage xenophobic violence against foreign nationals in south Africa. Inferring from its findings, the study proposed some recommendations which are as follows; bearing in mind that the modern world we live in will always be characterised by migration between nationals of different countries, the migration of Ghanaians to South Africa is most likely to continue. It is, therefore, important for the authorities from both countries to find a way of educating their citizens on the need for tolerance and compromise on citizens from both countries. In addition, the Ghanaian authorities could borrow a leaf from the causes of migration by Ghanaian nationals and then using the causes, try to counter their migration to South Africa by offering the amenities and opportunities that the migrating citizens see as pulling factors to go and settle in South Africa. Furthermore, the study proposed that Ghanaian authorities and the South African authorities could sign memorandum of understanding, to protect citizens of respective countries in cases where xenophobic violence is experienced.