Chamisa Castigates Xenophobia In South Africa As Attacks On Migrants Rise

Chamisa condemns xenophobic violence in South Africa as attacks on African migrants rise, calling for regional action and protection of foreign nationals.

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Fresh waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa have triggered strong regional condemnation, with opposition leader Nelson Chamisa calling for African unity and urgent intervention as attacks on migrants intensify.

By Advent Shoko

Reports from multiple townships point to renewed street clashes and the targeting of businesses owned by African migrants. Groups such as Operation Dudula and the Patriotic Alliance are said to be at the centre of campaigns against undocumented migrants, raising alarm across the region.

In a strongly worded statement, Chamisa’s office said:

“The xenophobic attacks and targeting of foreign nationals in South Africa are deeply regrettable and wholly unacceptable.”

He urged African solidarity, warning that the crisis “is not merely a South African issue; it is a regional and continental concern.”

Chamisa linked the migration pressures to governance challenges in Zimbabwe, noting that “over five million Zimbabweans” now live in the diaspora due to political and economic push factors. He called on the Southern African Development Community and the African Union to fast-track solutions to longstanding regional disputes.

Veteran journalist Hopewell Chin’ono described the violence as “deeply disturbing,” stressing it does not reflect the values of ordinary South Africans. Highlighting attacks on “defenceless African nationals trying to live and work,” he said:

“What we are witnessing is outright Afrophobia.” 

Analysts say the violence exposes deeper governance and economic tensions, where migrants often become easy targets amid rising unemployment and inequality. Chin’ono added:

“This is not strength, it is cowardice… they go after the weak because they are afraid of confronting real power.”

From a migration and legal perspective, the developments raise serious concerns about the rule of law and the protection of foreign nationals. South African authorities are under increasing pressure to respond decisively, ensure accountability, and restore confidence in the country’s commitment to human rights.

As tensions simmer, the crisis is fast becoming a litmus test for regional cooperation, governance reform, and Africa’s long-standing promise of unity.