South Africa Grapples with Surge in Xenophobic Attacks Amidst Rising Unrest. Johannesburg, South Africa — In late April 2026, South Africa witnessed a surge in anti-immigrant protests and violence, primarily led by the group ‘March and March’.
The protests have been fueled by economic concerns, including high unemployment and crime, which some attribute to the presence of undocumented foreign nationals.
The violent incidents have included physical assaults, looting, and the closure of foreign — owned businesses, particularly in Johannesburg and Durban.
The South African government, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, has condemned the attacks and pledged to crack down on xenophobic violence. This surge in violence has not come in isolation.
South Africa has a history of xenophobic violence, particularly during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Economic hardship and high levels of unemployment can exacerbate tensions and lead to outbreaks of violence against foreign nationals.
The country’s political landscape and the upcoming local government elections may also be contributing factors to the current unrest.
The ‘March and March’movement and other protesters argue that illegal immigration is fueling unemployment and crime, and demand mass deportations and stricter immigration laws.
However, the South African government and international organizations like the United Nations have condemned the violence and emphasized the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the issues. Foreign missions and embassies have advised their citizens to be cautious and in some cases to close businesses or avoid certain areas.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the situation, with the Secretary — General calling for an end to vigilantism and incitement to hatred.
The South African government has been working on the National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP) 2025 White Paper and the Employment Services Amendment Bill (ESAB) to regulate the employment of foreign nationals more closely. These measures aim to address the underlying economic concerns that fuel xenophobic sentiments.
The African Union has also been actively involved, hosting a pivotal AU G20 Retreat to ensure the continent remains coordinated and strategically positioned.
The Pan — African Parliament (PAP) has been addressing issues of education and skills development, which are crucial for the future of the continent.
As South Africa grapples with this surge in xenophobic attacks, the need for a peaceful resolution and a focus on economic development and integration becomes more pressing than ever.
The country’s future and its position within the African continent and the global community depend on its ability to address these challenges effectively.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
