South Africa has pushed back against accusations of xenophobia after a fresh wave of anti-migrant protests triggered concern in several African countries, arguing that the demonstrations reflect frustration over undocumented migration rather than hostility to foreigners as a whole. Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya said on Wednesday that “South Africans are not xenophobic,” describing the unrest as isolated protests that fall within the country’s constitutional right to demonstrate.
The comments came as hundreds of protesters marched in Durban and other centres demanding tougher action against undocumented migrants, especially those operating informal businesses. Similar protests in recent months have also targeted migrants’ access to clinics and hospitals, reflecting wider anger in a country battling unemployment above 30% and deep social strain. Critics, however, say foreign nationals are again being scapegoated for South Africa’s economic hardships.
The issue has already spilled into diplomacy. Nigeria has announced emergency repatriation plans for citizens who want to leave South Africa, saying at least 130 Nigerians have sought assisted return after recent protests and the reported deaths of two Nigerians in custody of South African security officials. Ghana also formally protested earlier after videos circulated showing Ghanaians being harassed. South Africa has since pledged to crack down on xenophobic violence and prosecute those responsible.
Magwenya said African governments should also address the root causes pushing citizens to migrate, including conflict, instability and poor governance. He said South Africa and other countries needed a constructive continental conversation about why so many people are forced to seek livelihoods elsewhere. His remarks followed talks between President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, where both sides agreed that migration pressures must be tackled at their source. Still, the government’s attempt to separate anti-immigration protest from xenophobia is unlikely to silence critics. For many observers, the latest unrest shows how quickly migration can become a volatile political issue in South Africa, especially when economic pain, weak public services and regional inequality collide.
