By Ayele Yimer
South Africa is once again under the spotlight following a resurgence of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, raising alarm among African governments, human rights organizations and regional bodies over the safety of migrants and the future of continental unity.
Although earlier calls for nationwide anti-foreigner protests have passed, reports of intimidation, attacks on migrant communities and the destruction of foreign-owned businesses continue to emerge from different parts of the country, highlighting persistent tensions fuelled by economic hardship and unemployment.
The violence has reportedly claimed lives and displaced hundreds of foreign nationals. Nigeria has confirmed the deaths of two of its citizens, while Mozambique has reported that several of its nationals were killed during attacks linked to the unrest.
South African authorities are investigating a number of the incidents, although they have disputed some casualty figures released by foreign governments.
The attacks have also forced thousands of migrants to flee affected areas, with some African countries facilitating the voluntary return of their citizens amid growing concerns over their safety.
South Africa has experienced repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the years, with migrants from Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Somalia, Mozambique, Nigeria and other African countries frequently becoming targets.
Many have lost businesses, homes and livelihoods, while others have been forced to seek refuge in temporary shelters.
Analysts attribute the hostility to persistent unemployment, widening inequality and economic frustrations, with some South Africans blaming foreign nationals for job shortages, crime and pressure on public services.
However, experts argue that these challenges are rooted in deeper structural economic problems rather than migration.
Human rights organizations have urged the South African government to take decisive action against those responsible for the attacks and to guarantee the safety of everyone living within the country’s borders regardless of nationality.
They have also called for stronger efforts to counter misinformation, hate speech and anti-migrant narratives that fuel violence.
The renewed unrest has raised concerns about its potential impact on Africa’s regional integration agenda, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which depends on closer cooperation, the movement of people and stronger economic ties among African nations.
Observers say South Africa, as one of the continent’s leading economies and a key member of the African Union, has a responsibility to uphold the principles of Ubuntu and Pan-African solidarity by protecting migrants and promoting peaceful coexistence.
They argue that lasting solutions lie not only in strengthening security but also in addressing unemployment, poverty and inequality through inclusive economic policies, community dialogue and public education that foster mutual respect among all Africans.
As the country works to contain the latest wave of violence, regional leaders continue to urge calm, warning that attacks against fellow Africans threaten to undermine decades of progress towards peace, integration and shared prosperity across the continent.