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In South Africa, a surge of protests calling for the expulsion of undocumented immigrants has instilled a palpable sense of fear among African migrants. With the campaign group March & March at the forefront, the situation has escalated, as demonstrators demand that those without legal status depart the country by 30 June. This rallying cry has reawakened deep-seated xenophobic sentiments, leaving many feeling vulnerable and unsafe in a nation where they once sought refuge.
A Climate of Fear
Recent marches across South Africa have seen angry crowds demanding the removal of immigrants, leading to violent incidents and tragic loss of life. At the end of May, Mozambique reported that five of its citizens were killed during xenophobic attacks, with South African police confirming that two Mozambicans and a local resident died in related violence in Mossel Bay. This wave of hostility has forced many, including individuals from Mozambique and Malawi, to seek shelter in communal facilities, such as the town hall in Kleinmond, after being threatened with eviction from their homes.
One Ethiopian businessman, who has lived in South Africa since 2000, expressed the extreme anxiety felt by many in the immigrant community. He noted that despite having legal documentation, the pervasive threat of violence renders such status meaningless. “Every day and almost everyone I meet, they are in fear, extreme fear,” he reflected, highlighting the grim reality for many who call South Africa home.
Historical Context of Xenophobia
South Africa’s relationship with its immigrant population has long been fraught, rooted in a complex history of migration and economic hardship. Following the end of apartheid in 1994, Nelson Mandela welcomed migrants into the country, recognising their contributions, particularly in the mining sector. However, persistent unemployment and economic challenges have fostered an environment where many South Africans blame immigrants for their struggles.
The violence against immigrants is not new; the country has witnessed several outbreaks of xenophobia, notably in 2008, when riots resulted in the deaths of 62 people, including 21 South Africans, and displaced over 150,000 individuals. A recent survey by the Human Sciences Research Council indicated that the percentage of South Africans welcoming all immigrants has plummeted from 25% in 2020 to just 15% last year, a reflection of growing discontent and societal rifts.
Political Responses and the Road Ahead
The protests have gained traction against a backdrop of rising political tension, particularly with local elections approaching in November. March & March, founded in March 2025, has gained notoriety for its aggressive stance on immigration, with its leader, Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, alleging that illegal immigration could number between 15 and 30 million. The group’s activities have garnered support from various factions, including smaller political parties looking to capitalise on the prevailing sentiments.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has attempted to navigate the delicate situation by acknowledging the public’s concerns while condemning any form of violence. In a recent address, he emphasised the need for a rigorous crackdown on illegal immigration and corruption within border authorities, affirming that only state officials should be allowed to verify an individual’s nationality. His remarks aimed to quell fears of lawlessness and to prevent the further destabilisation of society.
The Human Cost of Uncertainty
For many immigrants, the climate of hostility has created a profound sense of uncertainty about the future. Sandy Khumalo, a Zimbabwean restaurateur in Johannesburg, voiced her anxiety, stating, “Of course I’m worried, because I don’t know what’s going on, what’s happening. Since 2009, I’ve been here, so this is my home. I’m so stressed.” Such sentiments are echoed across communities, illustrating the human cost of the current unrest.
Why it Matters
The ongoing protests and the escalating anti-immigrant sentiment pose significant challenges not only for the individuals directly affected but for South Africa as a whole. As the nation grapples with its identity and the complexities of migration in an era of economic instability, it risks further entrenching divisions within society. The ramifications of this unrest extend beyond the immediate violence and xenophobia, potentially destabilising communities and undermining the social fabric that binds the nation together. The need for a compassionate and inclusive dialogue is more urgent than ever, as South Africa confronts the ghosts of its past while trying to carve a path toward a more equitable future.
