South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for tolerance and unity following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants in the country.
The appeal comes amid rising tensions that have reportedly claimed the lives of at least two Nigerians since violence erupted last month. Several migrant-owned shops have also been looted, while reports indicate that some pupils of Nigerian descent are now afraid to attend school due to fears of intimidation and attacks.
Nationals from Ghana and Zimbabwe have also reportedly been affected in the unrest.
Speaking on Tuesday after a meeting with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, Ramaphosa stressed the need for African countries to work together to address the growing tensions surrounding migration and economic hardship.
“South Africans inherently are not against people from other nations. We are one people, we have always been one people,” Ramaphosa said.
He noted that South Africa must ensure the safety of foreign nationals living in the country while also addressing concerns raised by citizens over unemployment and economic pressures.
Ramaphosa said he and Chapo agreed that regional cooperation was necessary to find lasting solutions to the crisis.
“All countries that have foreign nationals in South Africa are also affected as South Africa is affected, so we must all work together, join hands, to find solutions to this problem,” he said.
The South African leader also reminded citizens of the support many African nations provided during the struggle against apartheid.
“South Africans do not have a hatred to other people from other countries on our continent. They supported us during our struggle,” he added.
While calling for compassion toward migrants, Ramaphosa reiterated the government’s position on immigration compliance and employment regulations.
He urged employers to adhere to labour laws by ensuring that only individuals with valid work permits are employed, adding that opportunities should also be prioritised for South African citizens.
Ramaphosa further appealed to foreign nationals residing in the country to ensure they possess the necessary legal documentation, noting that South Africans are similarly required to comply with immigration laws when living abroad.
South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the years, often driven by economic challenges, unemployment, and tensions over migration.
