Expert calls for urgent action on Xenophobia in South Africa

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The President of the Africa Development Studies Centre (ADSC), Victor Oluwafemi, has called for urgent continental intervention to address rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa.

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Oluwafemi made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, where he expressed concern over growing anti-migrant hostility in parts of South Africa.

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He warned African leaders against silence on attacks targeting foreign nationals, stressing that inaction could embolden further xenophobic behaviour.

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“Silence in moments such as this is not neutrality,” he said, adding that it risks undermining confidence among African communities and weakening continental integration efforts.

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He urged the South African government to act swiftly by strengthening the rule of law, ensuring immigration enforcement remains within legal frameworks, and preventing vigilantism or targeted hostility.

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According to him, a clear national response is necessary to reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to the safety and dignity of all African nationals residing in the country.

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Oluwafemi also called on the African Union to take a more proactive role in addressing xenophobia and protecting migrants across the continent.

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He noted that African integration and economic cooperation depend on stable and secure environments that guarantee the free movement and safety of citizens.

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The expert further urged African governments to pursue coordinated diplomatic engagement to protect their citizens abroad while maintaining strong bilateral relations.

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He added that Nigeria, as a leading voice on the continent, should adopt a more strategic and long-term approach to citizen protection and conflict prevention.

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Oluwafemi also encouraged public figures and influential voices to help shape responsible public discourse on migration and continental unity.

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He warned that continued inaction could affect investor confidence, regional cooperation, and the credibility of African integration frameworks, calling for sustained dialogue and coordinated action across the continent.

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