In recent weeks, South Africa has witnessed a resurgence of xenophobic sentimentleaving many African migrants in a state of constant fear. The March & March campaign group, a prominent force behind these protests, has issued an ultimatum for illegal immigrants to leave the country by 30 June. The situation has escalated, with reports of violence and displacement affecting thousands.
The recent unrest has its roots in long-standing economic and social issues. South Africa, a country with a rich history of migration, has seen a significant increase in its foreign-born population, which has nearly tripled to 2.4 million between 1996 and 2026. This demographic shift has fueled tensions, particularly in light of the country’s high unemployment ratewhich has risen to 43.1% since 2026.
Escalating Tensions and Violent Incidents
Violent incidents have erupted in various parts of the country, with the most recent occurring in Mossel Bay on the south coast. South African police reported that two Mozambicans and one South African died during an outbreak of violence. Meanwhile, Mozambique has stated that five of its citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks at the end of May. In Kleinmond, about 100 people from Mozambique and Malawi sought shelter in the town hall after being threatened by an angry crowd.
The fear and uncertainty are palpable among the migrant community. An Ethiopian entrepreneur, who has lived in South Africa since 2000, shared his concerns: “Every day and almost everyone I meet, they are in fear, extreme fear.” Despite having legal documents, many migrants feel vulnerable to violence, highlighting the deep-seated nature of the problem.
The Role of Political and Social Factors
The recent protests have been organized by March & March, a group founded in March 2026. Led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, the group has been vocal about its demands for mass deportation. Ngobese-Zuma claims that illegal immigration ranges from 15 million to about 30 million, a figure that has been met with skepticism. The group’s protests have gained traction, with marches taking place in cities including Durban, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
Political analysts suggest that the issue is highly volatile, with potential repercussions for parties that align themselves with the protests. Otlotleng Mokgatle, a political analyst at Control Risks, noted that supporting anti-migrant marches could lead to outbreaks of looting and other forms of instability. Meanwhile, smaller parties like ActionSA and Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) are trying to gain support by associating themselves with the protests.
Government Response and Future Outlook
South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, has acknowledged the concerns raised by South Africans about migration and illegal immigration. In a televised address, he emphasized the need to address these concerns while warning against lawlessness and violence. Ramaphosa promised a tougher crackdown on illegal immigration and corruption within the country’s border authorities, stressing that only state officials are permitted to demand proof of nationality.
Despite these assurances, the future remains uncertain for many African migrants in South Africa. Sandy Khumalo, a Zimbabwean restaurant owner in Johannesburg, expressed her anxiety: “Of course I’m worried, because I don’t know what’s going on, what’s happening. Since 2009, I’ve been here, so this is my home. I’m so stressed.” As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes both the safety and dignity of all individuals in South Africa.
