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In recent weeks, South Africa has witnessed a surge in anti-immigrant protests, igniting deep-seated xenophobic sentiments and instilling a pervasive sense of fear among African migrants. Demonstrators in Benoni, located east of Johannesburg, have been vocal in their demands for the expulsion of undocumented immigrants, amid escalating violence and hostility against foreign nationals.
Protests and the Call for Deportation
At the forefront of these demonstrations is March & March, a newly formed campaign group that has garnered attention for its aggressive stance against illegal immigration. The organisation has set a deadline of 30 June for all undocumented individuals to leave the country, although it remains unclear what consequences await those who do not comply. This ultimatum has intensified anxiety among immigrant communities, who are now grappling with the reality of heightened scrutiny and aggression.
Recent incidents of violence have only exacerbated these fears. Mozambique’s government reported the deaths of five of its citizens in xenophobic attacks at the end of May. South African police confirmed that violence erupted in Mossel Bay, resulting in the deaths of two Mozambicans and one South African. In a desperate response, approximately 100 individuals from Mozambique and Malawi sought refuge in the town hall of Kleinmond after being threatened by a local mob.
The Historical Context of Xenophobia
South Africa’s complex relationship with immigration dates back decades. The nation, once a beacon of hope under Nelson Mandela’s leadership post-apartheid, has seen a significant influx of migrant workers, particularly in the mining sector. Economic hardship and hyperinflation in neighbouring countries, such as Zimbabwe, have driven many to seek opportunities in South Africa. However, as poverty and unemployment rates soar—currently at a staggering 43.1%—resentment towards migrants has grown, leading to periodic eruptions of violence.
Statistics from the Human Sciences Research Council reveal a troubling decline in the number of South Africans who welcome immigrants, plummeting from 25% in 2020 to just 15% last year. This shift reflects a broader trend of scapegoating migrants for the country’s socio-economic challenges, with many citizens expressing anger and frustration towards foreign nationals.
The Political Landscape
Political figures are increasingly weighing in on this contentious issue as local elections approach. The leader of March & March, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, has been vocal in her claims that illegal immigration figures range from 15 million to 30 million, stating that South Africans are now becoming “refugees in their own country.” Such rhetoric has resonated with certain political factions, including ActionSA and Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), who are attempting to harness public sentiment for electoral gain.
In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation, acknowledging the legitimate concerns surrounding migration and illegal immigration. He promised a stringent crackdown on illegal immigration and corruption within border control agencies, emphasising that only state officials are authorised to request proof of nationality. Ramaphosa condemned the use of these concerns as a pretext for inciting violence and lawlessness.
The Ongoing Struggle for Safety
As tensions continue to escalate, the plight of African immigrants remains precarious. Many, like Sandy Khumalo, a restaurant owner with a residency permit, express deep anxiety about their safety and future. “Since 2009, I’ve been here, so this is my home. I’m so stressed,” she shared, encapsulating the fears felt by countless individuals facing uncertainty.
The situation remains fraught with peril as marches proliferate across the country, from Durban to Pretoria. These protests not only reflect the frustrations of South Africans but also highlight the urgent need for a more nuanced understanding of the immigration debate.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa poses significant implications for the nation’s social fabric and political landscape. As economic conditions worsen and xenophobia resurfaces, the safety and dignity of millions are at stake. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to foster dialogue and understanding, rather than division and violence. The actions taken now will undoubtedly shape the future of South Africa’s immigrant communities and the country’s overall stability.