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In a troubling resurgence of xenophobic sentiment, protests in Benoni, east of Johannesburg, have spurred fears among African immigrants in South Africa. The campaign group March & March has issued an ultimatum to undocumented migrants, demanding their departure by 30 June. This escalating tension follows a wave of violence that has left several individuals dead, intensifying the already fraught atmosphere surrounding immigration in the nation.
Immigrants Under Siege
The recent protests have rekindled long-standing animosities towards immigrants, particularly those from neighbouring countries. Participants in the demonstrations have called for the expulsion of undocumented individuals, leading many migrants to feel increasingly vulnerable. An Ethiopian entrepreneur, who has resided in South Africa since 2000, expressed the pervasive anxiety among the migrant community: “Every day and almost everyone I meet, they are in fear, extreme fear. The sad part is it’s not because they are undocumented. But none of the legal documents will protect you from the violence.”
The situation has become dire for many, as reported incidents of violence against immigrants have surged. Mozambique has confirmed the deaths of five of its nationals due to xenophobic attacks, with South African authorities noting additional fatalities in Mossel Bay. In response to the escalating violence, numerous individuals have sought refuge in local community centres, illustrating the desperate measures many are taking to ensure their safety.
Historical Context of Xenophobia
South Africa’s complex relationship with immigration is rooted in its history. The country has long relied on migrant labour, particularly in its mining sector. Following the end of apartheid in 1994, Nelson Mandela fostered an environment welcoming to African migrants. However, economic hardship and high unemployment have led to a growing resentment towards immigrants, who are often scapegoated for the nation’s social and economic woes.
The country has witnessed several violent outbreaks against immigrants, with the 2008 riots resulting in 62 deaths and the displacement of over 150,000 people. More recently, the proportion of South Africans who express welcoming sentiments towards immigrants has plummeted, dropping from 25% in 2020 to a mere 15% last year, according to data from the Human Sciences Research Council. This decline has coincided with a rising unemployment rate, now standing at an alarming 43.1%.
Political Responses and Future Implications
The protests have not only stirred public sentiments but have also caught the attention of political figures. Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, the leader of March & March, claims that illegal immigration numbers could be as high as 30 million. In her view, South Africa faces an “invasion,” which she argues has turned South Africans into “refugees in their own country.”
The South African government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has attempted to navigate this contentious landscape by acknowledging the concerns of citizens while warning against the dangers of lawlessness. Ramaphosa has pledged to intensify efforts against illegal immigration and corruption within border agencies, asserting that only state officials are authorised to demand proof of nationality. “We will and must not allow groups to use the legitimate concerns of South Africans to destabilise our country through inciting lawlessness and violence,” he stated.
The Role of Social Movements
March & March, founded in March 2025, has rapidly gained momentum, organising protests across the nation, including in major cities like Durban and Pretoria. The group is reportedly funded by concerned citizens and contributions through social media platforms. In the lead-up to local elections scheduled for November, smaller political parties are seizing the opportunity to align themselves with the anti-immigration sentiment, potentially exacerbating the tensions further.
Prominent figures such as radio DJ Ngizwe Mchunu have emerged as voices for the protests, having previously faced legal challenges related to inciting riots. This confluence of social movements and political opportunism raises significant questions about the future of immigration policy and social cohesion in South Africa.
Why it Matters
The current turmoil surrounding immigration in South Africa underscores a broader crisis of identity and stability within the nation. As the spectre of xenophobia looms larger, the impact on immigrant communities is profound, with many living in a state of fear and uncertainty. The situation not only poses a threat to social harmony but also highlights the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform and community dialogue to bridge the divides that threaten the fabric of South African society. The ability of the nation to address these challenges will be crucial in determining its future trajectory and the well-being of all its residents, both native and foreign.