The Ghana High Commission in South Africa has advised Ghanaian business owners in Pretoria to temporarily shut their shops today ahead of a planned protest by an anti-immigrant group known as March & March.
The group is organizing another demonstration aimed at people it claims are living illegally in South Africa. In response, the High Commission issued a statement urging Ghanaian nationals to stay alert and avoid areas where protests are expected to take place.
Authorities warned that the march may head toward the Presidency and pass through Sunnyside, a suburb in Pretoria known for its large population of Nigerian and other African migrants. There are concerns that this route could heighten tensions or lead to possible violence.
South Africa has seen recurring anti-immigrant demonstrations in several cities, often driven by groups demanding stricter immigration enforcement. These events have sometimes created unrest in communities with large foreign populations.
Sunnyside is one of such areas, home to many African traders and small business owners, and has previously been mentioned during periods of heightened tension linked to immigration debates.
Diplomatic missions in South Africa, including Ghana’s High Commission, regularly issue safety warnings during planned protests, advising citizens to stay cautious, avoid demonstration routes, and in some cases close their businesses temporarily.
The March & March movement has been widely reported for organizing protests focused on immigration issues, particularly targeting undocumented foreign nationals.