Diplomatic relations between African nations are strained following the cancellation of a state visit from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to Ghana resulting from a rise in violence against immigrants living in South Africa.
The decision represents a substantial setback for Pretoria as pressure mounts on South African authorities to contain the rising incidence of xenophobic violence against foreign nationals in the region.
Ghana has indicated that the cancellation of the president's trip is informed by concerns over the safety of its nationals living in South Africa together with the anger exhibited by the public over the violence going on against foreign-owned businesses in the region.
This is the latest incident of diplomatic tension arising from a series of attacks on foreign-owned businesses. South African authorities have vowed to improve security and bring to justice the perpetrators of violence against foreign nationals residing in the country.
According to analysts, Ghana's actions show the frustration among African countries, as the constant violence against migrants may affect the ideas behind regional integration, trade and cooperation based on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The reschedule of the visit has raised general questions about South Africa and its status as a regional leader, whether the country will be credible for its African partners in view of the violence in the country.
While the diplomatic efforts are being taken it will be interesting to watch whether Pretoria will be able to persuade its neighbours with practical approaches or the new conflict will only widen the distance between countries.
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