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In a dramatic escalation of anti-immigrant sentiment, protests across South Africa have sparked fear among the nation’s immigrant communities. Campaign group March & March has issued a demand for the expulsion of undocumented migrants, setting a deadline of 30 June for those living in the country without legal status to depart. This movement, which has gained significant traction, is reviving deep-rooted xenophobic feelings and prompting widespread concern among African migrants about their safety and future.
Protests Fuel Xenophobic Sentiment
In recent weeks, a series of rallies have unfolded, with demonstrators arguing that undocumented immigrants are to blame for South Africa’s high unemployment and economic woes. The situation has escalated to alarming levels, with violent incidents reported following these protests. Notably, Mozambique has confirmed that five of its citizens lost their lives amid what have been termed “xenophobic attacks” in late May. The unrest reached a boiling point in Mossel Bay, where violence claimed the lives of two Mozambicans and one South African.
As tensions peaked, around 100 individuals from Mozambique and Malawi sought refuge in the Kleinmond town hall, fleeing threats of violence directed at foreigners in their communities. This mass displacement has left many feeling vulnerable and abandoned, with some expressing a desire for assistance from their home governments to facilitate their return.
A Culture of Fear Among Immigrants
The pervasive fear among immigrants is palpable. An Ethiopian entrepreneur, who has called South Africa home since 2000, articulated the anxiety felt by many: “Every day and almost everyone I meet, they are in fear, extreme fear.” Despite holding legal documentation, he explained that such status offers little protection against the violence that has become increasingly common.
Historically, South Africa has welcomed migrant labour, particularly within its mining sector. Nelson Mandela’s post-apartheid leadership marked a significant shift in the nation’s attitude toward African migrants. However, as economic conditions have deteriorated, particularly in neighbouring countries burdened by hyperinflation and poverty, South Africans have increasingly directed their frustrations towards foreign nationals. The Human Sciences Research Council reported a notable decline in the proportion of South Africans willing to welcome immigrants, dropping from 25% in 2020 to just 15% last year.
Political Dynamics and the Road Ahead
The political landscape is shifting as groups like March & March gain prominence. Founded in March 2025, the organisation has organised protests in various cities, including Durban and Johannesburg, often inflamed by local events and unverified claims. March & March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has asserted that illegal immigration figures could be as high as 30 million, describing the situation as an “invasion” that has left South Africans feeling like refugees in their own land.
Several political parties are seizing the moment to align themselves with anti-immigrant sentiment, particularly as local elections approach. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the concerns surrounding immigration but has urged caution against using these fears to justify violence. He has vowed to strengthen measures against illegal immigration while promoting accountability within border authorities.
Government’s Stance and Societal Implications
Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent address highlighted the need to address the public’s concerns while maintaining law and order. He reinforced that only state officials have the authority to demand proof of nationality, aiming to prevent vigilante actions that could spiral into chaos.
Political analyst Otlotleng Mokgatle emphasised the volatility of this issue, warning that parties leveraging anti-migrant sentiments risk facing backlash if violence erupts. As the political climate grows more charged, the spectre of violence looms over the immigrant community, with many feeling increasingly isolated and anxious about their status in South Africa.
Why it Matters
The current situation in South Africa is not merely a reflection of economic frustrations but highlights deeper societal issues, such as inequality and unemployment. The resurgence of xenophobic sentiment poses significant risks, not just for the targeted immigrant populations but for the fabric of South African society as a whole. As protests continue and political tensions rise, the potential for violence threatens to destabilise communities and undermine the progress made in fostering inclusivity in the post-apartheid era. The government’s response and the societal commitment to addressing these issues will be crucial in determining the future of coexistence in this diverse nation.
